Jean Dessès was a Greek designer working in Paris in the 1940s-1960s. Dessès ran a couture house, which means that his designs were exceptionally designed and made, but doesn't necessarily mean that each design was unique. Couture designers made many versions of their most popular designs each season, and some couture houses had licensing agreements with American companies. Using the same pattern and fabric as the couture house, the company was allowed to produce copies of the gown in its own workshops. MOHAI's dress, purchased at John Doyle Bishop's shop in Seattle, is one of these licensed copies.
Bishop (1913-1980) operated a high-end women’s clothing store in Seattle from 1950 until his death in 1980. He sourced designer garments from the United States and Europe and provided personalized fashion advice for his devoted clients.