It is no secret that fashion moves in a spiral, and sooner or later, various trends reappear in the images of modern women. Empire style is no exception.
Moreover, its main characteristics are so successful that it allows him to stay in the fashion world for a long period of time.
History of style
The classic Empire style lasted only a quarter of a century. However, he was so fond of beauties, that modern ladies transformed him for themselves.
After the Great French Revolution at the end of the 18th century, the distinction between the various social strata smoothed out. Society became democratic and progressive, which marked the beginning of a new, more modern era. Such dramatic changes could not be displayed in the manner of dress. High wigs, fluffy crinolines, fancy accessories were sent to the furnace. They were replaced by simplicity, tenderness, refinement and refinement of taste.
At the same time, the great Napoleon I Bonaparte ascended the French imperial throne, and together with him on the historical arena appeared the beautiful Josephine Beauharnais. It was she who became the inspiration of the new style. Every European woman of fashion dreamed of being loved by a great commander.
Characteristics
The Empire's dress was the visiting card of the Empire style, which in French meant “shirt”. Indeed, earlier such a cut of dresses was applicable only for shirts that were worn under magnificent dresses. In appearance, the dresses of fashionistas of the early twentieth century resembled light Greek clothes, tunics. It is not surprising, because the legislator of the Empire style, charming Josephine, was a big fan of the culture of the Hellenes.
The silhouette of the dress shmiz was supposed to resemble an antique column. The cut of this outfit provided for a short bodice with a deep neckline, which literally went along the chest line. The sleeves were short in the form of "lanterns" on the wide cuffs. The main part of the decoration fell under the bodice by flowing lines. In front it seemed straight, and on the back it was cluttered, so that small folds gave the image even greater lightness.
The outfits were sewn from airy transparent fabrics, and thick silk was used as a lining. At the height of the Empire, women preferred white and pastel colors more. Later colors could be absolutely any. But the dresses remained plain.
Decorative items and accessories
A variety of decorative solutions gave exquisite luxury to monochromatic dresses with a simple cut. To make the product look more elegant, it was enough to sew a thin tail behind.
Empire style dresses are characterized by underlining the high waistline with satin ribbons or a more complex edging. The decoration for evening events and celebrations had a richly decorated bodice. The decor was embroidery in gold or silver threads. For women at the beginning of the nineteenth century, there was no craving for colorful outfits. Therefore, women of fashion preferred to use decorative elements in tune to the dress.
In cold weather, young ladies wrapped up in a cashmere shawl, she also played a big role in shaping the image. As for other warm things, here the poor girls are not lucky. Women's fashion then did not involve wearing outerwear. Even more absurdly looked ladies in fine silks of fierce winter against the background of men, who, on the contrary, at the time welcomed the layering of clothing.Despite constant colds, women continued to stubbornly follow fashion trends, dressing warmly except for riding.
White husky gloves accentuated thin arms and elegant movements. The head of the young lady was decorated with all sorts of hats, berets, caps and even turbans. These elements of clothing played the role of accessories.
Empire style dictated the rules not only for clothing, but also for appearance. The maximum naturalness of the image was welcomed. The use of cosmetics has been minimized. The skin of women of fashion should be aristocratically pale. Therefore, another indispensable accessory for ladies has become a lace or silk umbrella.
Style benefits
Empire style dresses are so versatile that they fit any body shape. The proportions of the screws are shifted to 1: 6, making it exclusively for the chest, and the rest of the figure is covered with flowing, falling cloth.
For slim girls, a short, fitted bodice will lift the chest, and a loose skirt will add a feminine silhouette to the figure. For owners of magnificent forms such an outfit is also ideal. High waistline emphasizes the advantages and visually smooths any flaws.
That is why the cut of empire style dresses is still relevant today. There is no more successful style that would suit women of different constitution and age. Under such a maxi dress, you can wear shoes with both high heels and flat shoes.
Empire style elements in modern outfits
This time is characterized by a combination of different styles with the use of certain techniques taken from the past. Echoes of the Empire style have been heard to the present day, although in the classical form it can only be found in individual customers.
Modern outfits can be extremely short in length, such as baby doll dresses. And the finish is much more modest than the products of the beginning of the nineteenth century. But the main feature - high waist - remains unchanged.
Evening dresses
Empire style is reflected in many wedding and evening dresses. As for celebrities, on the red carpet it will be easy to find an image with elements of the ancient style.
The upper part of modern models can combine an empire style bodice with a long sleeve or wide shoulder straps. The depth of the neckline varies from frank to high. Evening dresses adhere to classic canons. The skirt retains its maximum length or is pulled by a small train.
Casual wear
In the collection of any couturier there are models of sundresses and high-waisted blouses, underlined with decorative details.
Any everyday outfits to a greater or lesser extent allow the presence of fashionable elements of the beginning of the XIX century. Thanks to its flowing silhouette, the cut of the press is a favorite style for future mothers.
Strange as it may sound, but the characteristics of an empire style can be perfectly combined with a business style. Laconic dress with a modest decoration will be appropriate in the office, even with the most stringent dress code. If at work it is permissible to wear more interesting outfits, then the dress can be decorated with contrasting trim. Modern models now allow bright prints on products in the Empire style.
The model of maxi-sarafans is widespread, in which instead of the classical fitted bodice there is a “collar”.
Due to the variety of colors, this model of dress can be chosen for any occasion. A bright rainbow sundress is perfect for walking and dating, and a one-color model for evening events.
