Edward Epoque

The Edwardian era, although short, was jam packed full of culture and decadance. Prosperity was still at large and so there was enough wealth to spend on lavish materials and products.



King Edward VII (source: englishmonarchs.co.uk): there is so much intricate detail on the garments in this - the layering of expensive materials gives a very exclusive look, complimenting his high status



(Source: mirror.co.uk) I love how this looks very orient-inspired; the collar and architectural qualities of this shirt give quite a mandarin vibe; perhaps influenced by the oriental and nature influenced Art Nouveau?

King Edward, unlike his mother (Queen Victoria), was very absorbed in society and frequently travelled, bringing back exotic clothes and objects and sharing them with society. He was always at the forefront of new fashions and became something of a style icon for those beneath him to be inspired by the new looks he was creating; heavily influenced by the fashions in France and the Belle Epoque.



(Source: vam.co.uk) Miss Lily Elsie - a popular performer during the Edwardian era; also one of the fashion elite. You can see Elsie positively dripping in jewels and lavish fabric - she is a perfect example of the public's ideals of living in the lap of luxury, which made her something of a style icon.

The Belle Epoque (French for Beautiful) is seen as a happy, peaceful time. France wasn't at war with anyone - like Britain, it too had an abundance of wealth and so this meant no rationing of materials was necessary; people were pretty much free to do as they wished! This in turn had a huge affect on the arts and fashion worlds - people were spending money to watch shows chock full of detailed and expensive costumes; the Moulin Rouge for example, was a place with luxurious decor and costumes; people were able to enjoy themselves.


Can-can dancers at the Moulin Rouge (source: pettipond.com)



(Source: exoticexcess.com) Take a look at the gilded walls/ceilings of this Belle Epoque apartment - it's all in itself a brilliant work of art!

Haute Couture raised in popularity, as many people wanted to wear one-off, exotic looking garments - around the same time, the first ready to wear collections were presented in Harrods; an infusion of the current fashions (tightly corseted with a bustle and wide hat) with hints of the sumptuous garments seen in couture. This made high fashion more accessible to the masses, so many more could enjoy the splendour of self expression!