The Edwardian Era started at the close of the Victorian Era. As the era is typically defined to the reign of Edward VII (1901-1910), it is frequently expanded to include up to 1919, which encompasses such events at the sinking of the Titanic (1912), the beginning of World War 1 (1914), the end of hostilities with Germany (1918), and the signing of the Treaty of Versailles (1919). While Queen Victoria generally shunned society, her son embraced it. From 1901 to 1910, the era was considered one of prosperity and peace. In fashion, this era saw the upper classes embracing leisure sports, and this was the last era that women wore corsets on a daily basis. The Great War saw women’s clothing greatly modified. Arthur Marwick commented that “for, however far politicians were to put the clocks back in other steeples in the years after the war, no one ever put the lost inches back on the hems of women’s skirts”.
In the past several years, there have been more and more historical television series that have been produced, and they give us an exciting glimpse into what life may have been back then. Most notable have been Downton Abbey and Mr. Selfridge. These shows have inspired me to take a look at an era that I have previously overlooked in favor of other eras.
Here is where I will explore the Edwardian Era through fashion, as well as links to some of my favorite Edwardian Era sites. Please enjoy!
Edwardian Underthings – My first foray into foundation garments for this era
1912 Walking Suit – My first foray into fashion garments for this era
Edwardian Night Shift – Coming Soon!
Just Blame Jane 