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
We recommend that you decide on one of the two following characters:
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
Brightly colored suits (justaucorps, waistcoat, breeches, ascots), often embroidered and buckled shoes or boots were common.
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).
Key Elements: Rich materials like velvet and brocade, decorative embroidery, looser fits, unique neckwear, and soft hats rather than just top hats.
All parts of the evening will occur in the same area so no need to change in between or worry about transition times.
You can dress according to your level of comfort and there will be a coat check to store elements of your look if they might get in your way (accessories, hats, cloaks and capes).
Ladies: An idea can be to wear a normal cocktail dress under an ornate kimono, robe, tie dress or ornate cape. Hair and makeup can build up throughout the evening as you wish.
There will be a ladies lounge made available for costume adaptations and makeup touch ups.
Gentlemen: You could go from steampunk Victorian to Moulin Rouge to the Dandy clubhouse look or perhaps embrace a more bohemian, artistic looks like Klimt, Toulouse Latrec and Alphonse Mucha.
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
Costume
Edwardian Gentleman
Klimt film costume article 2006
Accessories
For the men
The Salon look for the art patron
Late Victorian historical background

