The fashion world has been turning its revisionist eye to the Edwardian era, when fashion had an elevated elegance and the clothes definitely made the man or woman.
In honor of this trend, we present a fashion plate for you to mix and match pieces to design your own ensemble. And we even have tips and insights from fashion blogger Dyanna Dawson of TheSFStyle.com, to help you do it right!
- UGUIDE:
Does this trend have a specific name
out on the street?- Dyanna Dawson:
You know, I always just refer to pieces as “Edwardian-inspired,” but historically the period is also known as the Beautiful Era. And the paradigm of the time was the Gibson Girl.
- UG:
How would you describe the look/trend in a nutshell?
- DD:
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Key elements: Opulent beaded and lace detailing, ruffle blouses, tailored jackets, high collars, high-waist trousers, three-piece suits (for men), lace-up boots.
Hairstyle: Definitely up-dos. Soft waves or curls piled high.
Accessories: Small beaded handbags, large-brimmed hats.
- UG:
- How would you define this style? What makes an item part of this style versus what does not?
- DD:
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One of the defining features of the style is the silhouette. Edwardian silhouettes are very feminine, with a raised waistline and close-fitting skirt. This longer, more column-like effect stands in stark contrast to the heavily bustled hourglass silhouettes of the Victorian era.
The Edwardian period didn’t invent the tailored jacket for women, but it certainly helped to popularize it —especially in terms of sportswear.
- UG:
What would you consider the philosophy or driving idea of the new style — what is it trying to achieve or express?
- DD:
I think the modern day Gibson Girl shares a lot of qualities with her predecessor: independent, confident, and possessing an effortless sense of style.
- UG:
Where did this new trend come from — why this look and why now?
- DD:
A lot of turn-of-the-century enthusiasts refer to the Beautiful Era as one of the most underrated. I think we have designers like Bottega Veneta and Alexander McQueen, and period dramas like Downton Abbey, to thank for bringing Edwardian imagery back to the forefront of the pop-culture landscape.
- UG:
If someone were putting together their own DIY street-level ensemble, as opposed to a well-known fashion house version, what tips would you offer? What would you look for?
- DD:
The key to executing this trend is restraint, not authenticity. Instead of dressing head to toe in the trend, try incorporating just one or two Edwardian elements.
- UG:
What would you say are the biggest “dos and don’ts” in terms of trying to mix and match things, or even just generally?
- DD:
When taking inspiration from the past, the biggest mistake anyone can make is being too literal. Avoid looking like you stepped out of a time machine by mixing eras and infusing some of your own personal twists.
