Gazette du Bon Ton, 1920 - No. 5 : Une robe du soir de Worth 1920

Bernard Boutet de Monvel made this print, Une robe du soir de Worth, in 1920 for the Gazette du Bon Ton. The even hatching and thin color gives the image a subtle feel that really speaks to the process of printmaking. I’m drawn to the way the linear quality of the dress mirrors the precision of fashion illustration while hinting at a three-dimensional form. The alternating lines of tone and color that define the dress's folds remind me of the conceptual nature of dressmaking. The way the tail of the dress pools on the floor is really satisfying. It’s like the garment is in conversation with the space around it. Italo Lívio Vianna Jr. another fashion illustrator also explores similar themes of line and form. Both artists, though working in different contexts, highlight the intersection of fashion, art, and cultural identity. It’s cool how art can be about the same stuff over time.