Dress 1894 - 1896

This dress was made by the House of Worth, a leading Parisian fashion house, known for its opulence. The dress exemplifies the high level of skill involved in haute couture of the time, which was only available to the wealthiest people. The foundation of this dress is the quality of the silk, which is tightly woven with a subtle sheen. The shape is all about volume and silhouette, created by careful tailoring. Note the puffed sleeves and the way the skirt flares out slightly from the waist, with ruffled details adding to the sense of luxury. What truly elevates the dress, however, is the delicate black embroidery, accentuating the neckline and hemline. This intricate work shows dedicated labor, each stitch placed by hand. It prompts us to consider not only the artistry involved, but also the labor that underpinned these extraordinary garments. The dress therefore serves as a reminder of the complex social structures of the time, and the relationship between fashion, labor, and class.