The Extravagant Eye of Charles Frederick Worth
Briefly

Charles Frederick Worth, regarded as the creator of haute couture, commanded a prestigious clientele with his luxurious designs that embodied the societal extravagance of his time. His gowns, characterized by elaborate draperies and intricate details, showcased the idea of conspicuous consumption. Worth’s fashion catered to the wealthy elite during a period of significant social change, where women’s property rights were limited. The exhibition 'Worth, Inventing Haute Couture' at the Petit Palais features over four hundred pieces that highlight the evolution of his work and its relevance in contemporary society.
Charles Frederick Worth, the nineteenth-century designer widely credited as the inventor of haute couture, embodied the excesses of his time, attracting an elite clientele with extravagant gowns rich in detail.
His 'upholstery-style' gowns illustrated the concept of 'conspicuous consumption,' reflecting society's changing dynamics regarding wealth and the social status of women during a transformative era.
The exhibition, 'Worth, Inventing Haute Couture,' showcases over four hundred rare works, highlighting the evolution and impact of Worth's designs from crinolines to the modern fashion landscape.
Visitors can experience this rich historical journey at the Petit Palais in Paris, celebrating how fashion intertwines with societal values across different epochs.
Read at The New Yorker
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