Born 1896 as Marguerite de Wagner, French fashion designer of Belgian origin Maggy Rouff opened a new fashion house at 136 avenue des Champs Elysees under the name Maggy Rouff in 1929. She was known for her understated sportswear designs at the beginning of her career, and later for the feminine detailing in her garments such as ruffles, shirring, and the bias cut.
Fashion designs by Maggy Rouff in the 1950s
In 1937, Rouff opened a London outpost at 12a Stanhope Gate, Park Lane. The business was housed in an old home which she decorated herself.
In the 1930s, Rouff headed PAIS (Association pour la Protection des Arts Plastiques et Appliques, also known as the Association pour la Protection des Industries Artistiques Saisonnieres), one of the most important anti-piracy and counterfeiting trade networks in Paris couture, which was founded by Madeleine Vionnet in 1922.
Rouff retired in 1948. Her daughter Anne-Marie Besançon de Wagner took over the business. The house closed in 1965 after failing to attract younger customers.
Rouff died in 1971 at the age of 74. These vintage photos captured portraits of classic beauties wearing fashion designs by Maggy Rouff in the 1950s.
Maggy Sarrange in black satin halter dress with wide lapels by Maggy Rouff, photo by Philippe Pottier, 1950
Model in gala evening gown of white moiré banded in black lace worn with blue-green satin manteau, by Maggy Rouff, photo by Georges Saad, 1951
Model in white lamb’s broadtail jacket by Maggy Rouff, hat by Legroux, handbag by Violette Cornille, photo by Seeberger Bros., 1951
Sophie Malgat in a romantic gown of white tulle draped with a garland of roses by Maggy Rouff, photo by Philippe Pottier, 1951
Sophie Malgat in navy blue poplin suit with lapel detail and scarf in navy and white print taffeta, by Maggy Rouff, hat by Madame Paulette, photo by Philippe Pottier, 1951
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