c. 1910

Woman's Dinner Dress

In 1899, Madame Havet was discovered by the American clothing buyer Robert Wilkinson. As a result, her models were imported on a large scale to the United States and sold at Saks, Wanamaker's, and Macy's department stores. In 1910, the designer, who had created gowns for the Empress of Russia, became head of Agnes, a couture house known for its lingerie and silk bodices. Havet's signature detailing included the pale feminine colors, exquisite hand-painted lace, and rhinestone trimmings found on this gown, made about the time she joined Agnes. In 1931, Agnes combined with the House of Drécoll to become Agnes-Drécoll, which closed in 1953.