But it was the androgyny promoted by Chanel that dominated women's fashion in Europe in 1919. ... Once the matchless pace setter of individuality in fashion, Poiret snorted that her clothes resembled 'Cages lacking birds. Hives lacking bees.' The 1910s are not a well-known decade in fashion history. Despite the success of Downton Abbey, many … Continue reading The Myth of Chanel and the 1920s: I – A Sea Change
Category: 1920s
The Myth of Chanel and the 1920s: Introduction
In November 1919 pictures of Gabrielle Chanel's chemise dress had filled the pages of Vogue: 'A gown that swathes the figure in straight soft folds, falling at the sides in little cascades.' The editorial commended Chanel's reliance on an uncluttered natural beauty, with a dress that showed only a slender pair of shoulder straps holding … Continue reading The Myth of Chanel and the 1920s: Introduction
A Little Advice?
Today I got the Joann's package I've been waiting for - fabric for a 1920s dress. On the plus side: nothing ended up being a huge mistake, too heavy or too light, a bad color or weird texture. Here's the indigo blue twill cotton with a nice little geometric print that I intended for the … Continue reading A Little Advice?
How's Your Weekend (Redux)
Picasa/Blogger's pictures have finally started working again, allowing me to refill my buffer of fashion plates (I was down to only about six) and to put the pictures into the How's Your Weekend post! It's much more interesting with them in. In related news, I've spent this weekend working hard on my own 1920s presentation, … Continue reading How's Your Weekend (Redux)
Actual Sewing!
So, I spent the past week engaged in making a Regency day dress for myself. Fastest thing I've ever fully put together! Albany's TulipFest is not really intended as a costumed event, but the Empire State Costumers (join us!) can turn any party into a dress-up party. (I'm the second from the right.) To start, … Continue reading Actual Sewing!
Mimic of Modes 