Petit Courrier des Dames, 1833, No. 996 : Chapeau en crêp (...) 1833

This fashion plate, titled 'Petit Courrier des Dames', was printed in 1833, likely in London, judging by the imprint. It showcases Parisian styles, rendered through engraving and hand-coloring. The dresses are made from crepe, a lightweight fabric known for its crinkled texture and elegant drape, and further embellished with lace, ribbon, and applied decoration. These finishing touches signify artistry, and the skilled labor of lacemakers, seamstresses, and dressmakers. The attention to detail—the pleating, the ribbonwork, the delicate lace trim—speaks to a culture of conspicuous consumption and display. The image also reflects a global network of trade and production. The fabrics themselves could have been sourced from around the world, underscoring the connection between fashion and broader systems of commerce, labor, and material culture. Ultimately, this fashion plate provides a snapshot of a particular moment in history, when fashion was not only a marker of personal style but also a reflection of larger economic, social, and cultural forces.