Ball gown 1898

This ball gown was made by the House of Worth, a leading Parisian couture house. It beautifully illustrates how high fashion in the late 19th century was, in essence, a craft industry. The gown is constructed from delicate silk satin, likely woven on a Jacquard loom for complex patterns. The ethereal butterfly motifs are not printed, but meticulously embroidered by hand, a labor-intensive process requiring highly skilled artisans. These weren't considered artists in the traditional sense, but their expertise was essential to Worth's designs. Notice how the texture of the embroidery, the sheen of the satin, and the pastel palette all contribute to the dress’s light, airy quality. Worth was one of the first designers to brand himself, turning dressmaking into a recognized art form. Yet, this glamour rested on the invisible work of countless seamstresses. So, when we admire this gown's beauty, remember also the hands that brought it into being, and the complex social dynamics of the fashion world.