1900-1910
1.
.Edwardian…
During this time, dresses were made in two parts. The top part was almost like a corset and was worn over the S-bend corset. By 1905, press fasteners started to join the top corset to the skirt in order to form what we know as a dress.
The straight sleeves effect of the late 1890’s started to develop into blouses. The costume at this time included very deep high lace fabrics that elongated the neck right
up to the chin. Theses were supported with a wire and worn in the daytime.
High neck blouse 1906:
Nightwear however, consisted of low neck square and round necklines. This allowed women to wear jewellery around the neck. The skirts on the other hand, were often elongated and gored. Later versions however, were able to flow more.
The costume at this time gave a lady posture and clothing that was free and able to sway.
After 1907, corsets became straighter and made woman appear taller. This corset started just above the waist and was fitted down the thighs.
The Edwardian era exploited the curves of woman and increased posture and maturity.
The Edwardians also achieved the monobosom effect which involved a one piece bosom. Ladies began to wear various sorts of bust bodices due to the fact that the bust was largely unsupported. This bust bodice was the earliest 20th century bra.
3. Winter hat
Hats were considered very stylish at this time. They were very artistic and extremely large. Feathers, flowers and other floral patterns were often used and the hats were used bold, vivid colours. Dark purple was considered very pleasing, usually velvet or chenille. The high crown was a very important factor in a winter hat and often had a velvet ribbon drawn around it.
Childrens costume
Childrens clothing, much like all clothing at this time was extremely mature and overdressed. Well off boys often wore a one piece suit over their bloomer trousers.
Poorer girls clothing included a linen suit, coat etc. They did not wear jewellery or lace as this was considered for adults. However, the better off girls were considered overdressed as they wore a lot of layers. The costume involved high heels, jewellery, leather shoes, skirts, fancy gloves, rhinestone buckles etc.
4. For formal occasions, men often wore top hats and the frock coat. However, the lounge suit with the homburg hat was increasing in popularity. Straw hats were also very popular and were sometimes worn with riding breeches. Trousers during this time were usually short and narrow with a sharp crease in front. Collars were made out of white starched linen and were very high, sometimes around the throat.
