Dimensions: height 370 mm, width 270 mm
Copyright: Rijks Museum: Open Domain
This fashion plate was printed in France for the Revue de la Mode in 1882, as the illustrated press gained momentum as a promotional force. The print presents a window into the visual culture of the French bourgeoisie during the Belle Époque. It depicts two women in elaborate dresses, showcasing the latest styles. Fashion plates like these weren't just about clothes. They were about constructing and reinforcing social hierarchies. In France, the rise of consumer culture created new ways to signal social status, and fashion became a crucial marker of class and taste. These images dictated not just what to wear but how to perform femininity. We can investigate the history of fashion magazines and retail culture to fully understand the social and economic context of this image. These resources help us decipher how these seemingly benign images participated in shaping identities and social norms.
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