Historical and Artistic Styles

Historic Inspiration: ART NOUVEAU (Early 20th Century)

Designer: Armani Prive, Spring 2009 Couture Collection

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Relevance: During the Art Nouveau period, eastern motifs were used to embellish garments. The skirt above reminds me of Japanese printed Kimonos. The ruffles placed at the hem of the skirt and sleeve help soften up the look.

Historic Inspiration: ROCOCO (1700-1788 Europe)

Designer:  Marc Jacobs, Fall 2009 RTW Collection

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Relevance: This look is relevant to the Rococo period because of the revealingly low neckline paired with the towering hairstyle. During this period both were used along with obvious use of make-up to reflect the overly ornate zeitgeist.

Historic Inspiration: BAROQUE (17th Century)

Designer: Wunderkind, Fall 2009 RTW Collection

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Relevance:  The baroque era brought about the use of contrasting colors and patterns. The photo above speaks to this because of the use of vertical and horizontal lines and the patterned bow around the neck. The tights are also a different pattern.

Historic Inspiration: GOTHIC (12th Century)

Designer: Zac Posen, Fall 2009 RTW Collection

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Relevance: During the middle ages, architecture became prominent in fashion inspiration.  Tight fitting apparel with contrasting drapery and/or towering accessories reflected this. The left-shoulder embellishment on this garment, paired with the mermaid silhouette speaks to this perfectly.

Historic Inspiration: GREEK/ROMAN (c. 300 BCE)

Designer: Albino, Fall 2009 RTW Collection

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Relevance: This dress has a distinct vertical line in the design to accentuate the dress. This same draping technique was prominent during the Greek-Roman period. Draping, folding, pleating and minimal sewing were also prominent during this time.

Historic Inspiration: ABSTRACT/OP-ART (mid 20th Century)

Designer: Coach Brand Op-Art Motif Sweater, Spring 2009

www.coach.com

Relevance: Abstract motifs and geometric shapes appeared in the 60s and 70s. This Coach sweater is relevant here because of the repeated use of the "c"s. The shape of the letters were altered to look more like open circles, equal in diameter.