Dress 1935 - 1942

This watercolor painting by Virginia Berge depicts a dress, evoking the fashions of a bygone era. The dress, with its pastel stripes and elaborate ruffles, speaks of elegance and status. Consider the corset, whose use dates to ancient Crete. It has re-emerged through the centuries in varying forms. Its visual language tells tales of control and the sculpting of the female form to meet societal ideals. As we gaze at the dress, we’re reminded of this history, one that carries weight and influence, shaping not just bodies but also perceptions. The emotional resonance of this dress lies in its connection to personal identity, stirring a deep, subconscious recognition of beauty standards and their ever-changing demands. This garment reflects a dance between tradition and evolution, mirroring how the past continually shapes the present.