Carven soon became known as "the smallest of big couturiers."[1] The signature piece from her first collection was a full skirted, green and white striped summer dress.[2] Green and white stripes became the signature of the House of Carven.[3] The material had been found in the attic of a chateau and was likely originally purchased for the summer uniforms of housemaids prior to World War I.[4] Her early clients included Leslie Caron, Martine Carol, Zizi Jeanmaire, and Édith Piaf.[4]