Two cousins, both known as Madeleine and long employed in the Parisian world of haute couture, opened their own couture house in 1919. The two women had worked behind the scenes for nearly two decades and had established a dedicated following. Madame Madeleine was “a successful vendeuse” from the house of Jeanne Hallée and her cousin Mademoiselle Madeleine worked as a designer at Jeanne Paquin, Callot Soeurs, and Drécoll. During the 1920s, couturiers like Madeleine & Madeleine introduced novel fashions with low slung, wide waistlines and a flattened bust that created a slim straight line. The deceptively simple dresses came to life with metallic fabrics, jewel-like beading, embroidery, and brocades that were complimented by glittering jewels and accessories.