La Mode, 15 août 1849 : Chapeaux de Euphrosin (...) 1849

Louis Berlier created this print, titled La Mode, in France on August 15, 1849. It offers us a glimpse into the fashion of the time, but also into the social expectations and roles of women in mid-19th century France. The two figures are dressed in elaborate gowns and bonnets, showcasing the styles of the upper class. Their attire is not merely clothing, but a statement of identity and status. Fashion plates like this one were instrumental in dictating trends, reinforcing class distinctions, and shaping the visual culture of femininity. One can imagine the tight corsets, the layers of fabric, and the restricted movement, all of which were part of the lived experience of women in this era. Consider the historical context: France in 1849 was a society grappling with the aftermath of revolution, class tensions, and evolving gender roles. This image captures a moment in time, reflecting the aspirations, constraints, and performances of identity through fashion.