The “counter” Victorian fashion movement, Aesthetics. These were artisans, craftsmen, and designers committed to maintaining the highest quality of fabric, texture, line, and design in response to what they felt was “crass” mass production. Getting their concepts from the “Pre-Raphaelites” who were a “rebellious” artistic movement (“Pre-Raphaelites” were protesting the …
.. our “Big Fi” Fiona is growing up! So proud of all the young Gals who jump into the fray. We older ones like to think we are teaching them something. It works both ways – we get their energy and enthusiasm, and they get our wisdom, experience and knowledge …
Here are a few photos from during the show. There will be more this week and many on the individual pages “by Gal”.
The Silhouettes “Buffalo Gals” presented “What Women Wore”, an historical fashion show on behalf of the Friends of the Powell (WY) Library yesterday. We packed the house (literally), and had a great time! Word of the day was “poufs”.. “poufy paniers”, “poufy hair”, “poufs of bosoms squeezed up high in …
.. this being part of Pre-Raphaelite J.W. Waterhouse’s “Ophelia” series, and a favorite inspiration for the Victorian era Aesthetic gown designers. (Photo left: 1909 tea gown; Right: “Ophelia”)
.. does capture the spirit, attention to detail with intricate trim, and flowing fabrics and colors of the Pre-Raphaelites. The Aesthetic concept of draping and fabric is still used today in bridal, formal wear, and costuming such as CosPlay. (Featured left: 1900’s Aesthetic velvet gown vs. J.W. Waterhouse Pre-Raphaelite painting …
We need you at the fashion show at the Powell, Wyoming Library on 3rd Street THIS TUESDAY, MAY 1st! 7:00-8:30 pm with time to mingle after. Snacks, books, and it’s FREE to the public. Donations which go to “The Gals” are welcomed and appreciated. THE SHOW WILL GO ON, even …
.. paintings. Both gorgeous depictions of rich fabric and ornament, flowing movement, and lovely colors. The Aesthetics wanted the women who wore these to be comfortable, sensuous, and to have the adventures of the J.W. Waterhouse depictions. (Left: 1909 Aesthetic gown; Right: J.W. Waterhouse “The Knighting”)
.. paintings vs. how the Victorian counter-fashion movement the “Aesthetes” interpreted them. The Aesthetes, like the Pre-Raphaelite painter J.W. Waterhouse, looked for sensuous beauty, organic forms, flowing movement, mythological and ancient themes, and rich colors and textures with amazing fabrics and highly crafted trims and details. The Aesthetic gowns of …
… the nymphs and sensual creatures of art. To blend and suit these surroundings it was felt that some reform in style of dress was needed. Among artistic people the resulting fashion was known as Aesthetic dress. (Photo featured : 1900 approx. Aesthetic Tea Gown has the Victorian model looking …
