Petit Courrier des Dames, 10 juin 1837, No. 1357 : Chapeau en paille de riz (...) 1837

This is a fashion plate from the "Petit Courrier des Dames," published in Paris in June 1837. These magazines offered a glimpse into the world of Parisian high society, showcasing the latest trends in clothing and accessories. Fashion plates like this one weren't just about aesthetics. They were deeply intertwined with the social and economic structures of 19th-century France. The rise of industrial production and global trade allowed for new fabrics and styles, influencing what could be produced. Magazines played a crucial role in shaping consumer desires, fostering a culture of aspiration and imitation, and influencing the fashion industry. By studying sources like trade records, personal letters, and, of course, the fashion plates themselves, we can gain a deeper understanding of the complex interplay between art, commerce, and social identity in 19th-century France. The "Petit Courrier des Dames" offers us a unique window into the lives and values of a particular social class at a specific moment in time.