Fashion in the Victorian Era
What defined a huge portion of the Victorian Era that took place in England from 1837 to 1901 was fashion. Women's fashion was particularly interesting, changing to reflect the new ways women were viewed in society. Gowns were a popular choice for women, with low and pointed waists and bell shaped skirts. Corsets and petticoats almost always accompanied a gown. Evening gowns featured low necklines and were worn off the shoulder with sheer shawls and gloves. In the 1860s the skirts began to change shape, becoming flatter in the front and projecting out in the back. By the 1890s fashion became simpler and less extravagant.
A major accessory that was true to the Victorian Era were hats. Typically they were feather and flower-laden creations. They were almost always modest in size, in order to prevent it competing with the dress for attention. Straw and fabric bonnets were the most popular during this time period.
Victorian Era Education
The Victorian Era worked very hard to improve the status of education in Europe. At the beginning of the time period, education was a rare treasure that only the elite had an opportunity to. The classroom almost always consisted of upper class boys above the age of 10. During the Victorian Era many of these things changed. Laws were passed in favor of expanding the institution of education. More schools were built and under law it was required to obtain an education, no matter who you were.
This era brought about a lot of change, and for the most part people welcomed the new steps towards building a better country.
Due to my upcoming adventure to Paris, France for spring break, I have extreme interest in one of the worlds most recognizable monuments: the Eiffel Tower. This symbol of France is one of beauty and stength. Its original purpose was to frame the entrance to a Worlds Fair, celebrating the French Revolution. This building, which is the tallest in Paris, attracts millions of tourists and Parisians alike, representing something different to each individual. Construction of the monument began in July 1888, and to the public of the time period, was considered an "eye sore". One of the most exclusive, yet not widley known, facts regarding the Eiffel Tower is the fact that its deisgner, Gustave Eiffel, engraved 72 names of extremely influential people during the time period of construction.
Throughout history, it has been a constant battle for women to be granted the same rights as men. Suffrage is, in the grand scheme of history, very rcent. It is mind boggling how up until the 1860s women were still being limited by laws. Some European countries, France, for example, limited women until the 1940s! Women found other ways to express themselves in history, mainly through fashion. This was their subtle way of speaking out against the boundaries that refrained them from becoming active members in society.
