The
French Revolution made clothing which alluded to the decadence of the
18th century and the aristocracy both unpopular and unwise. Even the
upper classes adopted more visually modest modes of dress. Garments
inspired by antiquity (a time of democracy) became fashionable and
women began to turn away from complex outfits to looks inspired by
statuary.
Empire
silhouettes dominated and clothing was made of materials which
accentuated the shape of the body in a more naturalistic and less
contrived way. France, as one of the seats of fashion alongside
London, lead in these respects and went one step further with reports
of girls dampening their skirts so that they would cling and better
show off the shape of their legs. English women remained more modest
and practical.
Hair
was now often worn unpowedered in loose curls that looked more
natural but which were carefully arranged in reality.
The
almost modern simplicity and quiet beauty of this period really
appeals to me so I thought I'd share some of my favourite images! All
of the works are by David who greatly influenced and lead French
Republic painting and dress. Though he was somewhat of an
art-dictator, his aesthetic appeals to me none-the-less!
 |
Madame Raymond de
Verniac Jacques-Louis David, 1799
|
 Portrait of Madame Récamier David, 1800 |
 |
Madame Récamier David,
1800
|
