Petit Courrier des Dames, 1822, No. 78 : Robe de mousselin (...) 1822

This print, made by August Delvaux in 1822, showcases a dress made of muslin. Muslin is a lightweight cotton fabric, plain-woven, and known for its simplicity. Notice the elaborate detailing. The dress has embroidered ruffles, and lace trimmings, all requiring skillful handwork. The cashmere turban, or 'toque', signals luxury through its material, sourced from the undercoat of cashmere goats. This image gives us a sense of the textile production of the era, as these materials reflect a global network of trade, colonialism, and labor. Cotton cultivation, often relying on enslaved labor, fed the European textile mills. The embellishments added value, reflecting the skills of artisans and seamstresses. This is more than just a pretty picture. It speaks volumes about the interconnected economies and the social hierarchies embedded in the very fabric of fashion.