Chanel Haute Couture 1937

This is a drawing of a Chanel Haute Couture dress, made by Jean Cocteau, sometime around 1937. It’s all in black and white, super simple, but it has this energy, this kind of process-driven look. See how the lines aren't precise or trying to be perfect? The black ink is laid down confidently, in a way that shows the hand of the artist, like the little scribbled roses dotted all over the skirt. They have this looseness, like doodles, but also feel very chic. Then there’s the way he captures the movement of the fabric, like the folds and flow of the dress. The ribbon floating around the drawing feels almost like a collage. Cocteau wasn't just an artist, he was a poet, a filmmaker – so it makes total sense that he sees fashion in this expressive way. It’s a reminder that art doesn’t have to be serious, it can be playful, quick, and even a little bit messy. Think of someone like Picasso who also played around in the fashion world, and you get the idea – the avant-garde was everywhere.