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For fashion plate Friday I have two lovely things to offer from two distinct periods.

The first, to the left is from the Revue de la Mode (obviously a French fashion journal) from it appears to be 1886 (that seems right given the style of the bustles ~ my eyesight is kinda killing me at this point so it's hard to read the tiny faded print in the lower left.

I love the gold and green dress most, but the evening gown with the satin or velvet bodice and then the contrasting gold overskirt and purplish flowers. It works, I guess, but this is one of those places where I just know my sense of color is "off". I would never imagine deliberately making such a combination!


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The other image for the day comes from 1837 and shows various women in evening or mourning dress. Because mourning was such a huge part of the culture, it's always interesting to see how women tried to make it fashionable as well (within reason, of course ~ ostentation would have been grossly boorish). 

It's also interesting to note that black was actually popular in fashion during various periods, which helped alleviate it of its reputation for being the color of mourning. Though we still associate it with funerals today, it's also known as common party or cocktail wear: that "little black dress" for any and all occasions.

 


Comments

02/03/2011 09:20

Maybe I'm just grim by nature, but I adore mourning costume plates. I think they are such an interesting commentary on the culture of the time and the unique place mourning clothing had for people. Fascinating pieces to share.

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Chanel
08/01/2011 08:42

The first picture is definitely from 1886. I can see it ;)

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08/05/2011 05:55

I agree with you, <b>RLC</b> ~ mourning is definitely an interesting social custom (then and now), but with regard to the attire, especially then! [sorry for such a late response!]

<b>Chanel</b>, thank you! I'm glad your eyes are still bright and sharp!

: D

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