EDWARDIAN

The Edwardian style is the aesthetic of the era of King Edward VII (1901–1910), a refined bridge between severe Victorian opulence and the freedom of the 20th century. Its ideal is the 'hourglass' silhouette with the S-bend curve given by the corset: a full bust, narrow waist and smooth line of the hips. The dress was marked by delicacy and tenderness: lace, high collars, full 'pigeon-breast' blouses, light fabrics, wide-brimmed feathered hats. It is the age of the 'Belle Époque' with its cult of femininity, luxury and refined leisure. In modern fashion Edwardian motifs — lace collars, romantic blouses, refined silhouettes — are quoted in romantic and vintage collections. The Edwardian style is the refined, tender elegance of the last great age of the corset, full of aristocratic charm.