The 1900s and 1910s are often referred to as the Edwardian era after British King Edward III, or the Art Nouveau period, following French influence. The period saw significant changes in fashion and clothing from the earlier Victorian era, partly due to World War I (1914-1917), which impacted society and fashion.

 

Art Nouveau-Inspired Silhouettes and Luxurious Accessories

Women’s fashion in the early 1900s was influenced by the flowing lines and elegant style of the Art Nouveau period. The iconic Edwardian S-curve silhouette, shaped by a corset pushing the chest forward and creating a wasp waist, was popular at the beginning of the century but started to decline in the 1910s. Empire-waist dresses (with a high waist just below the bust) became popular, featuring soft, flowing skirts that highlighted a more fluid silhouette. Hats were large and elaborate, often adorned with feathers, flowers, or ribbons. Gloves, parasols, and jewelry were important accessories for women across various social classes.

A classic edwardian outfit, with nipped waist, long skirt, and a parasol to shade from the sun. From my historical fashion show back in May. Photo: Tami Meijburg

 

From the Edwardian S-Curve to the Fluid Empire Waist

Women began to move into traditionally male domains, gaining the right to vote, attending universities, and during World War I, taking over men’s jobs in factories. Women’s clothing became more practical, with simpler cuts, shorter skirts that often reached mid-calf for easier movement, and looser dresses that placed less emphasis on an hourglass figure. Corsets became less common.

An example of a late 1910s-early 1920s outfit. Note the looser silhouette and the simple cut. From my historical fashion show back i May. Photo: Tami Meijburg

 

French Heels to Practical Mary Janes and Oxfords

Women’s Edwardian shoes and boots were often made of leather. The most popular heel of the time was the characteristic curved "French heel." A lower block heel was also common on both boots and shoes and was more practical. In addition to high lace-up or buttoned boots, Mary Jane and Oxford shoes also started to gain popularity.

The Ruth boots, a classic Edwardian style everyday boot with lace up and a low practical heel. 

 

Men’s Fashion in the 1910s: Slim Suits and Military-Inspired Footwear

Men’s fashion in the 1910s was more conservative and did not change as dramatically as women’s, though some shifts occurred due to social and political developments. Men typically wore three-piece suits consisting of trousers, a jacket, and a vest. The vest had a high cut, and the suits had a slim fit. Trousers were high-waisted and narrow at the ankles. After the war broke out, men’s fashion was influenced by military styles, with more structured cuts, simple colors (like khaki), and functional garments such as belted coats.

Men’s Edwardian shoes matched the sleek silhouette of the time. Shoes and boots were made of leather, with simple yet elegant details, and often featured pointed toes. They were fastened with laces or buttons and had snug-fitting shafts.

 

William is our Edwardian inspired menswear shoe, with the classic pointed toe and fastened with lace. 

 

Sources:

• Shoes - An Illustrated Story by Rebecca Shawcross
• Tidens Mode by Anne-Grete Steckhahn
• Vintage Fashion - Collecting and wearing designer classics by Emma Baxter-Wright, Karen Clarkson, Sarah Kennedy, and Kate Mulvey