…is the asymmetry of the skirt drapery. This was extremely difficult to implement, and showed exquisite craftsmanship. Worth had a fascination of eastern and Asian cultures, and he in particularly was attracted to Japanese influence.
There had been a renewed interest in Japan in at the end of the 19th cnetury due to the re-opening of Japan’s borders to the western world by Admiral Perry in 1854, so it is not surprising the assymmetry, bold colors, beautiful silks, and Japanese influences should be seen in Worth designs.
(Photo: “Tulipes Hollandaise”, estimated 1895 bed gown by Worth shows the Asian influence in design, draping, color, and fabric)