Vier dameskostuums 1778

Here we have Daniel Nikolaus Chodowiecki’s print, Vier dameskostuums, from the late 18th century. It offers a glimpse into Berlin fashion, and thus, the societal values of the time. These weren't just clothes; they were statements of identity, privilege and aspirations. Note how the elaborate hairstyles and dresses embody the Rococo aesthetic, reflecting a desire for luxury during the Enlightenment era. The emphasis on ornamentation reveals a society deeply invested in visual display as a marker of status. What is also unsaid here is also important, these images uphold standards of beauty and femininity which remain exclusive and unattainable. It is a reminder that fashion, while seemingly superficial, can be a powerful tool for enforcing social hierarchies. How do these images make you feel? What do you think about the figures in the image?