It is safe to say that during the 18th and
19th centuries the whole world was in agreement that Parisians
had style. Parisians
and fashion have always been closely intertwined. The
manufacturing industry for fashion centered in Paris, as this
was where it began and continued to grow. Hence, Parisians developed
a close relationship with fashion and gained an undisputed reputation
for style. La mode was weaved into the Parisian
identity and became an integral part of everyday life.
It
is said that Parisian women either lived for la mode or
by la mode.
Figure
3.3 Cover of french magazine found in Picture
Book of French Fashion from the 19th century
by Florence Lenisten (Editor) and Joanne Olian
(Translator).
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La
Mode Illustrée
is an example of the various publications that existed
for the fashionably conscious Parisian women. It shows
the latest fashions that an upper class woman would
want to be informed about in order to remain chic.
The cover perfectly exemplifies the fashionable attire
of the 1830's and 40's. The women are wearing dresses
made of long, rich fabrics and have elaborate detail
on the bottom part of their skirts. The pads underneath
the dress create a large derrière for
the women; another symbol of upper class style. The
pointed hats, long gloves, and delicate umbrellas
complete their fashionable look. These day dresses
are ideal for strolling through the gardens or down
a boulevard. |
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James Grant called
the Parisians "exceedingly fastidious" in their
appearance and reported that "it was rare to see dirty
or poorly dressed persons in Paris" (Kramer,
33).
The subject of fashion has always held a
certain unique power with the Parisian and has
been an unmistakable part of their identity. For them, it represented
human realities of default and aspiration which provide a necessity
for change. It was a means of both reality and symbolism. Hence,
fashion was more than just people's attire for the day. The
aesthetics of costume was always important because of the social
and political stigma that came attached with it.
For
detailed explanations of the role of fashion during the French
Revolution click here
For
further information on the importance of fashion to the French
Bourgeoisie click here
