Dolman 1885 - 1890

This "Dolman" was designed by the House of Worth, a fashion house that operated between 1858 and 1956. The garment presents a fascinating study in form and texture. Enveloped in deep black velvet, the eye is drawn to the contrast between the fabric's plushness and the defined silhouette. The overall composition invites a reading of power, achieved through controlled lines and calculated volume. The structure here is not merely functional; it speaks to a broader cultural dialectic between constraint and expression. The heavy fabric, while luxurious, also imposes a certain rigidity, reminiscent of the restrictive social codes governing women's fashion. However, note how details such as the subtle embroidery and decorative fastenings offer glimpses of individuality. The subtle asymmetry in the ornamentation also suggests a play with established norms, a silent rebellion against uniformity. Ultimately, this "Dolman" functions as a complex signifier, embodying the tensions inherent in its historical moment and inviting us to consider the semiotics of dress and its role in shaping identity.