Cape c. 1937

Marie Mitchell created this design for a cape, using gouache and graphite on paper. Here, the materiality speaks of an economy of means, a design sketching rather than a finished object. The brown of the cape, the green of the lining, and the suggestion of wool through the use of dense strokes – each is a shorthand for something real. Notice how the artist pays close attention to details like the buttons and collar, suggesting the importance of functionality and finish. This work reminds us that fashion design sits at the intersection of art and craft. It's a field that requires not just creative vision, but also a deep understanding of materials, construction techniques, and the human body. Mitchell's design offers insight into the world of garment production, where countless hours of skilled labor transform raw materials into wearable art. It’s a reminder that the clothes we wear have a rich and complex history.