The Edwardian era, spanning roughly from the 1890s to the 1910s, was a time of transformation, elegance, and artistry in fashion. This period is often associated with its iconic silhouettes, intricate detailing, and the refined style of the upper classes. Today, I’m excited to share my collection of Edwardian fashion pieces and delve into the fascinating elements that defined this bygone era.

The Edwardian Silhouette: The S-Shape

One of the most recognizable features of Edwardian fashion is the S-shaped silhouette. Achieving this idealized feminine figure required the help of structured undergarments, including corsets that cinched the waist and emphasized the bust and hips.

• The Corset: Unlike Victorian corsets, Edwardian corsets extended below the bust and curved out over the hips, sculpting the body into the desired S-curve.
• Petticoats and Padding: Beneath the corset, women wore layers of petticoats and a small pillow placed at the lower back to enhance the pronounced curve of the silhouette.

Upper-Class Elegance: Layers and Details

Edwardian ladies were the epitome of grace, often dressed in garments that reflected their social status.

• Jackets and Skirts: A typical ensemble from around 1900 included a fitted wool jacket adorned with lace, ruffles, and intricate embellishments. This was paired with a long, flowing skirt, slim at the hips but flaring dramatically at the hem.
• Accessories: Women carried parasols—not to shield from rain, but to protect their porcelain skin from the sun. Decorative hats, often lavishly adorned with feathers, flowers, and ribbons, completed the look.

Footwear: 

Shoes were an essential part of Edwardian fashion, reflecting the period’s emphasis on elegance and detail.

• Early Edwardian boots featured pointed toes, slim shafts, and long laces, often crafted with French heels for a touch of sophistication.
• Eveningwear called for exquisite Mary Jane shoes with intricate decorations, small buttons, and dainty French heels.
• Everyday wear typically consisted of Oxford shoes with lower heels, offering practicality without compromising style.

The Edwardian Evening Look

Evening attire showcased the opulence of the period. Silk blouses with high necklines were adorned with lace, beading, and brooches. A white skirt with slim hips paired with a beaded purse would have been a go-to choice for elegant gatherings.

For formal occasions, blouses from the 1912 era incorporated sparkling stones and lace, emphasizing luxury. Necklaces and other delicate jewelry added the perfect finishing touch to these ensembles.

Children and Servants: A Glimpse Into Daily Life

Fashion wasn’t just for adults. Edwardian children, especially those from upper-class families, often wore scaled-down versions of adult clothing. One lovely example from my collection is a beautifully detailed jacket for a child, which mirrors the sophistication of adult fashion.

For domestic staff, attire was functional yet still reflective of the era’s style. A servant’s dress from my collection includes a sturdy apron, allowing her to perform household tasks while maintaining a polished appearance.

Evolution of Footwear: 1910–1915

By the 1910s, Edwardian footwear began to evolve. Shoes adopted more squared toe caps, moving away from the earlier pointed styles. Button closures became increasingly popular, showcasing the transition toward more practical designs without sacrificing elegance.

A Journey Through Time

This brief glimpse into Edwardian fashion highlights its incredible attention to detail, artistry, and the societal norms of the era. From the ornate blouses and flowing skirts to the evolution of footwear, every piece tells a story of beauty and refinement.

There is so much more to explore in Edwardian fashion, and I’m thrilled to have shared a part of my collection with you. I hope this journey into the past inspires your appreciation for this remarkable period of style and craftsmanship.