Elegantia, of tijdschrift van mode, luxe en smaak voor dames, Mei 1808, No. 44: Robe de Moire brochée,... 1808

This hand-colored engraving from May 1808 showcases a fashion plate from 'Elegantia, of tijdschrift van mode, luxe en smaak voor dames.' Fashion plates like these reflected and shaped the aspirations of women in the early 19th century. The depicted 'Robe de Moire brochée'—a dress of watered silk—speaks to the period's emphasis on elegance and refinement. While seemingly innocuous, these images offer a glimpse into the complex interplay of gender, class, and identity. The woman's attire signifies her social standing, reflecting the era’s strict codes of dress. Consider how fashion functioned as a visual language, subtly encoding messages about status and taste. The delicate details and luxurious fabrics might evoke a sense of aspiration, but they also remind us of the labor and resources required to produce such items. The image invites us to reflect on how clothing has historically been used to construct and communicate identity, and how these representations shape our understanding of beauty and worth.