French Fashions – Autumn 1845

Mid-19th Century Parisian Fashion: Antique Petit Courrier des Dames Print

Dating back to September 1848, this rare hand-colored engraving from the prestigious French periodical Petit Courrier des Dames captures the authentic essence of mid-19th-century European style. Set against a serene countryside landscape featuring distant buildings and soft hills, the illustration portrays two aristocratic women in outdoor attire. The figure on the left, viewed from behind, elegantly demonstrates how a luxurious rose-colored cashmere shawl draped over a voluminous pleated grey skirt. Beside her, the second woman showcases a sophisticated dark pelisse coat, known during the era as a Pardessus Louis XIV, layered over a blue striped gown, providing a perfect historical snapshot of high-society autumnal outerwear from Paris.

Biedermeier and Early Victorian Trends: Romantic Bonnets and Dome-Shaped Skirts

This exquisite fashion plate highlights the transition toward the iconic dome-shaped crinoline silhouettes that dominated the early Victorian and Biedermeier style eras. A prominent visual feature is the detailed rendering of period headwear, focusing on the structured cottage bonnets (capotes) adorned with delicate lace, flowing veils, and soft pink satin ribbons tied neatly beneath the chin. The artist meticulously illustrates the heavy textile weight, deep fabric folds, and intricate trimmings characteristic of 1840s tailoring, rendering this archival document an invaluable resources for textile historians, vintage fashion collectors, and theatrical costume designers seeking historical accuracy.