Ball gown 1893 - 1903

This ball gown was made by the House of Worth in France, during the late 19th century. It speaks volumes about the social rituals and economic structures of the time. The House of Worth was the first to create haute couture. This ball gown, with its intricate embroidery and delicate lace, was a symbol of wealth and status. But the garment's beauty masks a complex history of labor and consumption. The silk was sourced from distant lands, the lace was made by skilled artisans, and the gown itself was likely sewn by women working long hours in Worth's atelier. This gown is an artifact of a specific moment in social history. By studying it, alongside the archives of fashion houses and the writings of social critics, we can better understand the power dynamics and cultural values that shaped the world of haute couture.