Les Petites Dames de Mode: An Adventure In Design
For years, doll and costume enthusiasts alike have seized every opportunity to view the authentic period ensembles created by John R. Burbidge, former bridal designer for the prestigious Priscilla of Boston. Originally inspired by the French Theatre de la Mode of the 1940s, Mr. Burbidge spent twenty-five years creating Les Petites Dames de Mode ("little ladies of fashion"). The resulting collection of Victorian and Edwardian gowns worn by 29-inch mannequins has been displayed in prominent...
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For years, doll and costume enthusiasts alike have seized every opportunity to view the authentic period ensembles created by John R. Burbidge, former bridal designer for the prestigious Priscilla of Boston. Originally inspired by the French Theatre de la Mode of the 1940s, Mr. Burbidge spent twenty-five years creating Les Petites Dames de Mode ("little ladies of fashion"). The resulting collection of Victorian and Edwardian gowns worn by 29-inch mannequins has been displayed in prominent museums throughout the country and was the subject of a video produced in the 1990s. Not until now has the entire group been presented in one printed volume. This book features every gown created by Mr. Burbidge for his celebrated collection in full-page photos, with close-up views of important details, accompanied by the designer's extensive notes on the creation of each piece. The story of high fashion during the opulent Gilded Age, this book is more than just another volume of costume history. It is also the tale of John Burbidge's adventure as a contemporary designer who journeys back to a wonderful era of fashion and, as he writes, "What I would have designed, had I been there." A foreword by costume expert Elizabeth Ann Coleman places the collection in historical context. Les Petites Dames de Mode: An Adventure in Design is an important trove of knowledge and beauty, which will be appreciated and treasured by doll collectors, costume historians, clothing designers and fashion aficionados.
Foreword7Introduction8Chapter 1The Design Process10Chapter 2Mentioning the Unmentionables14Chapter 3The Crinoline Years: 1855-186920Chapter 4The Reign of the Bustle: 1870-188936Chapter 5La Fin de Siecle: The 1890s68Chapter 6La Belle Epoque: 1900-191490Chapter 7Ladies in Retirement134Chapter 8Have Women, Will Travel138Research, Reference and Reading for the Costume-Addicted142References for Quotes that Accompany the Plates144
