We’ve been discussing the “counter fashion” movements within the Victorian Era. We started with the Aesthetes, who emulated sensuality and mythological themes using gorgeous fabrics, colors, and imagery.
Next is Reform, which comes from the medical community in attempt to get rid of corsets and make comfortable and sanitary garments become fashion.
In reality, both movements were closely related to high fashion as they followed the silhouette of high fashion of the time, and even as high fashion changed.
(Photo/Sketches: Left Reform, Center High Fashion, Right Aesthetic gowns of 1909. Note the silhouette is the same, although it is achieved in entirely different ways)