One of the keys to Charles James’ work was his anatomical studies, including the development of specialized new tools, particularly an innovative dress form, enabling him to apply new shapes to the human body.
James reveres the arts of Constantin Brâncuși and Amedeo Modigliani. Like a sculptor, he prefers to shape directly on his clients’ bodies. In the mid-1930s, body-hugging, softly flowing, form-fitting draperies are created with the first sculptural shapes standing away from the body. For example his famous Eiderdown Jacket.