This dramatic evening gown combines a waist-length bustier with a long form-fitting skirt that opens wide at the knee. It has a wrapped top with bodice corsage of red machine tulle and stiffening rod inserts. The shoulder is partially folded open and the back is free. It closes at the bust with a snap and hook and eye on the left. The figure enveloping skirt is adorned with a multistage valance at the knee, the lowest stage of which is bell-shaped. The transition to the second stage in the front is achieved with a draped length of deeply darted. Above that, a large oversized bow is mounted centrally. All skirt hemlines are underlain with a stiff braided insert. Jean Dessès (1904-1970), born in Alexandria, opened his own couture house in Paris in 1937 and during the 50s he was a much sought-after designer among royal European families.