#10. The Timeless Elegance of Pauline Trigère Through the Lens of Richard Avedon

Winona Ryder at the 2000 Academy Awards wearing a Pauline Trigere gown.

Portrait of Pauline Trigère by Richard Avedon

One of the most well-documented photographs of Pauline Trigère is this portrait taken by Richard Avedon. This image featuring Pauline on a ladder, was captured in 1959. The dress remains as timeless, just as it was when originally designed in 1947. The strapless black column gown is complemented by a long sash in black and ivory, a dramatic and elegant ensemble . This photograph was featured in an article penned by former Vogue Editor-at-Large Mr. Andre Leon Talley. In the article, Pauline mentioned that despite being mainly self-taught, she expressed a desire to have apprenticed under the tutelage of Cristal Balenciaga and Jeanne Lanvin, even if only for a brief period. She regretted not having had the opportunity to learn from other masters before her, rather than going through the challenging process of trial and error.

This beautiful outfit resurfaced as a vintage gown worn by actress Wynona Ryder at the 2000 Oscars Academy Awards red carpet. The gown was purchased through Rita Watnick at Lily et Cle boutique in LA. It is another example of Pauline Trigère's ability to create designs that endure. Read my separate blog on Meryl Streep wearing Pauline Trigere on her acceptance for winning the Oscar for Kramer Vs Kramer here.