Très Parisien, 1923, No 9: 7. - ÉLÉGANTES. - Infiniment chic, ce tailleur... 1923

This fashion plate, Très Parisien, was made in 1923 by an anonymous artist. It’s ink and colour on paper, like a snapshot of the era’s style. I can imagine the artist at their desk, sleeves rolled up, meticulously drawing each line of the tailored suit and plaid dress. There's something really fascinating about the cross-hatching on the suit. It is such an interesting way to render the surface of the material and you can imagine the feel of the fabric. The strokes feel precise, yet the overall effect gives the fabric depth and texture. The blue plaid dress offers a nice contrast with its more open and flowing lines, suggesting a different kind of movement and fluidity. It reminds me of the ways artists have always responded to the world around them, trying to capture the essence of a moment, a feeling, a style. I think about other artists, like Sonia Delaunay, who were also playing with color and form, trying to capture the energy of modern life. We’re all in conversation, borrowing, riffing, and pushing each other forward.