In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, haute couture achieved its first real prominence and prestige, thanks to the elegant fashion creations of Worth, Lanvin, Paquin, Poiret, and a host of other brilliant couturiers. Now their finest designs–and the glittering era in which they were created–are recalled in this splendid paper doll book. Noted fashion authority and artist Tom Tierney has rendered two dolls (one in the earlier wasp-waisted style, the second accenting a straighter figure) and 30 authentic, meticulously detailed costumes in full color. Encompassing fashions of the late Victorian period, the Edwardian era, and the early years of the First World War, the costumes comprise a rich array of ladies' apparel, usually designed for a specific function. Here are dinner gowns, opera cloaks, ball gowns, walking costumes, visiting dresses, tailored suits, bicycling dresses, at-home outfits, and many more. Paper doll enthusiasts, costume and cultural historians, anyone interested in an especially influential period of fashion design, will delight in this inexpensive, full-color tribute to the inspiring and imaginative couture of the Belle Epoque. Includes two dolls and 30 costumes on heavy stock paper.
