Journal des Dames et des Modes: Men’s Fashion 1814

Pierre Charles Baquoy created this print of men’s fashion for the Journal des Dames et des Modes. It’s a visual shorthand for understanding the aspirations, status, and social roles of men in French society. Fashion in this period was an expression of social and political identity, with specific styles associated with different classes and political affiliations. The top hat, the cut of the coat, and the fabrics used all spoke volumes about the wearer's position within the social hierarchy. The Journal itself played a crucial role, not just as a mirror, but as a tastemaker in the fashion industry. The institutions that govern taste, like journals, academies, and the patronage system of the court, helped to shape the way art and fashion were produced and consumed. The image, in its detailed portrayal of men’s attire, is a record of the values and norms of the time. Looking closely, we can use primary source materials such as fashion plates, letters, and other archival documents to understand its cultural significance.