Straight to the heart

 

Forget roses, forget chocolate! We've got a better gift for you this Valentine's Day–a selection of objects that address the theme of the day, love.

1922no2arrow
Paul Poiret evening gown from La Gazette du Bon Ton
1922, No. 22
FIDM Museum Special Collections

Published between 1912-1925, every issue of the French fashion periodical La Gazette du Bon Ton featured witty illustrations of the latest fashions. Penned by Georges Barbier, Erté, Paul Iribe, Georges Lepape and others, the illustrations placed the garments within an intriguing narrative. Was it a romantic mishap, or fashion rivalry that put the arrow through her heart? Additional illustrations from La Gazette du Bon Ton can be seen here.

 

200687034 Romantica by Victor Costa
1974
Wool blend
Gift of the Manlove Family
2006.870.34

This maxi-dress gives new meaning to the phrase "wear your heart on your sleeve."

 

99274160 Ribbon
1930s
Gift of Robert Fortunoff 

A folklore-inspired pattern borrowing from motifs associated with the Tyrol, a portion of the Alps that straddles Austria and Italy.

 F200586020 Perfume compact
Estée Lauder
c. 1993
Gift of Annette Green
F2005.860.20

And finally, a warning from Estée Lauder: don't let love tie you up in knots!

Leave a Reply