The Look
Belle Epoque Paris
The Gilded Era America
Liberty Italy
Succession Vienna
Orientalism
Byzantinesque
Arabesque
1871-1914
Late Victorian England
Early Edwardian England
Bohemian
Libertine
The wealthy patron of the arts
Come dressed in late Victorian Early/ Edwardian attire suitable for a clubhouse or dinner party.
For Women:
Extravagant, floor-length dresses with bodycon silhouettes , sleeveless or off the shoulder, bright colors, rich fabrics (silks), lace, pearls, and elaborate updos with headpieces were standard, signaling wealth and status.
For Men
Formalwear, colored suits (justaucorps, waistcoat, breeches, ascots), often embroidered and buckled shoes or boots were common. If you attended the party last year, you can try to modernise your previous costume with a more “modern” jacked a Hermes scarf and a cane.
We recommend that you decide on one of the two following characters:
The artist, performer, musician, writer or muse
In this case a more Bohemian, Art Nouveau look with Oriental or Byzantine accents would be perfect. Capes, robes, kimonos, kaftans, tunics and harem pants. Another idea could be the traditional painter look.
For Women (Artistic Dress / Bohemian)
Mid-to-Late 1800s (Aesthetic Movement): A rebellion against corsets and tight fashions, featuring simpler, flowing gowns in rich, artistic fabrics like velvet, damask, and silk.
Key Elements: Loose silhouettes, smocking, embroidery, rich colors (jewel tones, deep purples from synthetic dyes), and sometimes medieval or Oriental influences (turbans, elaborate sleeves). Fabrics: Velvet, silk, damask, brocade, often with patterns.
For Men (Bohemian / Artistic)
Later 1800s: A move towards softer, more informal tailoring, sometimes inspired by historical or exotic dress (e.g., Turkish trousers, velvet jackets, capes).
Key Elements: Rich materials like velvet and brocade, decorative embroidery, looser fits, unique neckwear, and soft hats. Accessories such as canes, round sunglasses, rounded bowler hats, handlebar moustaches
Or come impersonating your favourite artist Gustav Klimt, Oscar Wilde, Erik Satie, Toulouse Lautrec
Helpful links for costumes
**Please note, these are just reference links for styles and inspirations. You should do your own due dilligence regarding product quality and validity of website
LOCAL ACCESSORY DESIGNER IN BOLOGNA
For the more Bohemia guests: I found a local artist who makes these very interesting pieces. You can contact him via what’s app for a custom piece or see what you like from his display. Whats APP: +39 37176949
Costume
Edwardian Gentleman
Klimt film costume article 2006
Accessories
Hairpiece for dancer or actress
For the men
The Salon look for the art patron
Late Victorian historical background
