Journal des Dames et des Modes, Costumes Parisiens, 1914, No. 141 : Robe de duvetyn (...) 1914

Editor: This is a fashion plate from 1914, titled "Journal des Dames et des Modes, Costumes Parisiens, 1914, No. 141 : Robe de duvetyn(...)", by Victor Lhuer. It's done in ink on paper and, I have to say, it really captures the elegance of the era. But I wonder, beyond just a representation of clothing, what else do you see here? Curator: What I see, first and foremost, is Paris! Do you see the distant buildings framed through the gate? And that bird…it is all an absolute vision of style as the world marched to war. Think about what it meant to pursue such finery just before the world changed. Editor: You mean the pre-war era gave it an even stronger meaning? Curator: Absolutely! There's this almost defiant beauty to it, don't you think? Like saying, "Even if the world is falling apart, we'll still find beauty where we can." The Art Nouveau style, all flowing lines and refined detail. Look at the fur trim and the delicate pleats. What could it mean to carefully craft each one as battles begin? And those shoes! I just love those shoes! Editor: So it's not just fashion, but almost a…statement? Curator: Exactly! What is style saying amidst turmoil? Is this simply escapism, or is it an assertion of identity in the face of overwhelming events? Fashion became so impacted, restricted after World War I, as if everyone let out a sigh. A release from a period, don’t you think? Editor: I never considered that perspective, but it brings so much depth to what initially seemed like a simple fashion illustration. It's a little melancholy, a little hopeful, and so Parisian! Curator: Isn’t it wonderful how one seemingly straightforward drawing can reveal so much when you really begin to look, think, and imagine what it evokes from you?