Paris Fashions – 1832

Modes de Paris 1830s Gigot Sleeve Promenade Gowns

This exquisite hand-colored fashion plate from the renowned French periodical Petit Courrier des Dames (Plate No. 887) exemplifies the highly dramatic silhouettes of the early 1830s Romantic era. The standing figure models a striking promenade dress made of patterned green and white gros de Naples chinné fabric, defined by its exaggerated, voluminous gigot or mutton-leg sleeves that dominate the upper body. Structured with a wide matching belt to accentuate a natural nipped-in waist, this historical attire showcases the flamboyant textile volume and intricate zig-zag trim detailing characteristic of pre-Victorian elite fashion.

Historical French Millinery Styles and Long-Champs Exhibition Outfits

The illustration highlights the elaborate headwear trends curated for the fashionable “Modes de Long-Champs” social gatherings in Paris. The standing lady wears an architectural rice-straw bonnet (chapeau de paille de Riz) decorated with a bold magenta silk bow and vertical bi-color plumes, while her seated companion, viewed from behind to show a large scalloped pelerine collar, sports a contrasting green-trimmed cap with curled ostrich feathers. Complete with original cursive French typography detailing high-end boutiques near the Boulevard des Italiens, this rare antique engraving serves as a premier reference for theatrical costume design and nineteenth-century print dealers.