… started by working in 2 design houses in London before he moved to Paris to use those credentials to work for dressmaker Gagelin. Gagelin sold textiles and some ready-made garments. Worth, working his way up to become the lead salesman, he opened a dressmaking department. This was where Worth established his reputation as a great designer, winning fashion contests at the Great Exhibition in London (1851) and the Exposition Universelle in Paris (1855).
Empress Eugenie of France was his first key customer for whom he sold her entire wedding trousseau. His success designing for her had him named French Court Designer, and obtained for him many more wealthy, noble clientele.
(Portrait: A young Eugenie in 1855 always wore Worth and required her Ladies to do the same)