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.
Compare “Edwardian” with another term
Meaning, origins and distinction — side by side.
Distinction
Two neighbouring eras of British fashion with distinct silhouettes. Victorian style (1837–1901) means corsets, bustles, high collars, dark saturated tones, heavy layering and severe modesty. Edwardian style (1901–1910) softened the form: an S-shaped silhouette with a full pigeon-breast bodice, pale pastels, lace, lightness and a move toward feminine elegance. Victorian is stricter; Edwardian airier.
