Dress 1890s

This dress was designed by the House of Paquin, a leading Parisian fashion house from the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Paquin was one of the first women to head a major fashion house, and her designs often reflected the changing role of women in society. This dress, with its delicate lace and soft colors, evokes a sense of femininity and refinement. The House of Paquin produced fashion for an elite clientele, and the dress reflects a culture of luxury and exclusivity. At the turn of the century, Parisian fashion houses held tremendous influence over global trends, shaping the way women dressed and presented themselves. Fashion historians use a range of resources, including photographs, magazines, and surviving garments, to understand the social and cultural context of clothing. By studying fashion, we gain insight into the values, aspirations, and power dynamics of a particular era. The House of Paquin was not merely creating clothing, but also shaping the very image of the modern woman.