Who's Who in Fashion: Charles Frederick Worth, 19th Century Designer

He is regarded as the "Father of Haute Couture" or "the first couturier"... English born but became a household name in France. Charles Frederick Worth was prominent fashion designer in the later part of the 19th century.

He drew some of his design inspirations from historic portraits and used very lavish fabrics and trimmings on his clothing. Nearly all of his designs were one-of-a-kind and made specifically for a certain client.

I really love all the pale and muted colors he uses. I imagine many of his inspirations came from portraits painted by Thomas Gainsborough.


Evening/Reception
Gown by Charles Frederick Worth c. 1890


Paris, France Pale pink and cream satin, machine-made lace, c. 1880



And here are a few Thomas Gainsborough paintings from the late 18th century... lovely similarities, hm?



Image Credits: 1.} Mint Musuem 2.} Victoria and Albert Musuem 3.} Met Museum 4.} Met Museum 5.} Penwith.co.uk 6.} Guardian.co.uk 7.} Olga's Gallery