Mademoiselle Sorel en grand habit 1921

Henri Reidel made this delicate and elegant image, Mademoiselle Sorel en grand habit, using watercolor. The colors are so soft, a pastel dream, and it’s clear this was made with a delicate touch, everything about it speaks of refinement and luxury. Look at how Reidel renders the folds of the dress, each painted individually, almost like the petals of a flower in full bloom. The pink is so light, it is like the dress is glowing. The black sash at the waist adds a touch of drama and modernity, anchoring the lightness of the pink and the overall Rococo feel of the illustration. Reidel’s contemporary Erté comes to mind, both were working in the field of fashion illustration at this time and shared a similar aesthetic. It all feels very poised, and of the moment, reflecting the visual culture of its time.