Asymmetrical garments

claireshaeffer

claireshaeffer

VFG Member
This is a couture Chanel suit. The center seam at the back is very off center which would indicate that the client had an asymmetrical body. I've discussed this with my sewing friends; the consensus is maybe scoliosis.

This isn't noticeable from the front until you look closely, then you can see that the left front is larger than the right.

I'm sure this client was not the only person who bought couture because of her figure. Have you seen any other garments? Do you have any?
Many thanks for your input.

upload_2021-12-23_9-8-57.png
upload_2021-12-23_9-9-29.png
 
I haven't seen this type of variation, but it makes sense. It would be interesting to see this on the original owner. I have mild scoliosis and had a discrepancy between my leg lengths which caused me to have to alter all my hems. When I went through hip replacement surgery, the surgeon was able to correct this—it's amazing how different that feels!

I have seen many alterations that indicate the unusual dimensions of people, but nothing like this couture suit.
 
The only thing I can think of is that we have had dresses donated that had built in bras, and one bra cup was filled, which suggests a mastectomy. That's all I can think of.... Although I do have a Lanvin suit from the 1930s that is UNUSUALLY tall, which suggests to me it was custom made.
 
Last edited:
Jonathan, do you measure the garments. When I worked on the Worth-Mainbocher exhibit at MCMY. I measure the garments, but not the individual sides. I must admit I was not looking for asymmetry.
The Lanvin skirt reminds me that I have a very long YSL skirt.
I had a friend when I was growing up who had an under-developed breast on one side.
I bought this suit from Doyles in the 1980s and I don't think they recognized the asymmetry. Sadly, I don't remember the other garments in the sale.
 
We don't currently measure the garments for lack of staff to catalogue beyond the absolute crucial info, but that will eventually change. BTW I think I have all the Doyle's catalogues... do you remember if it was illustrated?
 
Years ago, when I had my bricks-and-mortar vintage shop, I purchased a few nice mid-century suits from a lady. Until customers started trying them on, I did not notice that one sleeve on each jacket was about 2 inches shorter than the other. Oops! At least her specific, necessary alteration was fairly easy for her to accomplish.
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top