The High-neck Ruffle Blouse

On the eve of the French Revolution, over 250,000 units of measure existed in France. Some might say the French lacked unification. But one cannot use the mesures usuelles or the Imperial System when an item calls for the Carolingian system. Clearly, this is either a sign of exceptional attention to detail or it is an inability to discard something that was once effective. French women have mastered moving on to the next best thing while still keeping the last thing dangling curiously on the string. Both have their purpose, they would say.

This blouse incorporates that French imagination, seamlessly utilizing so many wonderful pieces, resulting in the unique and timeless. Consider the self-fabric ruffle down the placket, the indulgent silk chiffon, the lined body mixed with sheer sleeves, and that stately high neck. And of the course there are the colors—sultry black or the exceptionally regal princess blue, a color used by Renaissance artists for only their most prized subjects.

Discard nothing.

Imagine anything.

The High-Neck Ruffle Blouse (No. 5414). 100% silk chiffon. Double-layer self-fabric ruffle at both sides of front placket. Six hidden buttons down front placket with pearl-finish button at center front neck. Body lined in stretch polyester, slightly sheer sleeves are unlined. French seam finishes, straight hem with side vents, back yoke. Imported.