Journal des Dames et des Modes, Costume Parisien, 12 décembre 1803, An 12, (518): Chapeau de Feutr (...) 1803

Pierre Charles Baquoy created this print titled ‘Journal des Dames et des Modes, Costume Parisien’ in 1803. It offers us a glimpse into the sartorial expectations and aspirations of women in post-revolutionary France. Fashion plates like this one weren’t just about clothes; they were about constructing and communicating social identity. The high-waisted silhouette and relatively simple design reflect a shift away from the aristocratic opulence of the pre-revolution era, towards a more streamlined, almost classical aesthetic. However, this ‘simplicity’ was still a carefully constructed performance of status. Consider the fabric, likely expensive, and the impracticality of the long train, which speaks to a life of leisure and privilege. There's a tension here: The revolution sought to erase markers of class, yet fashion continued to operate as a signifier of social standing. What does it mean to desire fashion? What emotional needs do these garments fulfill, and what social messages do they send? This image captures a moment in time when clothing was deeply intertwined with the negotiation of identity and social power.