The study of Edwardian Blouse 

I have always admired the structure of the Edwardian blouse. Every detail is unique and beautiful, from its high collars and voluminous sleeves to its soft, billowy silhouette. What fascinates me most is how these elements come together to create a garment that is both delicate and distinctive.

For this project, I explored the history, structure, and defining details of the Edwardian blouse, also known as the shirtwaist, while developing a fashion illustration inspired by its characteristic design.

A Glimpse into the Edwardian Era

The Edwardian era, which lasted from 1901 to 1910, was named after King Edward VII's reign in the United Kingdom.

The blouse was also frequently referred to as a shirtwaist. It became an important part of women's everyday wardrobes, often paired with a tailored skirt. This combination was worn by working women, college students, and homemakers, making the blouse a practical and versatile garment.

The shirtwaist was also closely associated with the Gibson Girl, an idealized feminine figure popular in the early 1900s.

The Distinctive Silhouette

One of the most recognizable features of the Edwardian blouse is its pouter-pigeon, or pigeon-breasted, shape.

The front of the blouse was loose and billowy, creating a soft, rounded overhang above the waistline. This silhouette worked together with the era's straight-front S-bend corset, which helped shape the fashionable figure of the period .Why the Edwardian Blouse Stands Out to Me

Beyond its historical significance, I admire the Edwardian blouse because of the way it balances volume, proportion, and detail.

The full sleeves, high collar, delicate lace, and rounded front create a silhouette that feels both elegant and expressive. It is a reminder that even a practical everyday garment can become a beautiful piece of fashion history.

 

What My Mood board Captured

My mood board captures different aspects of the Edwardian era beyond the blouse itself. It explores the architecture of the period, the food people enjoyed, and the caps and headwear women wore with their outfits.

These details helped me appreciate the wider world in which the Edwardian blouse existed. They also show how fashion was connected to everyday life, culture, and the visual identity of the era. Through this mood board, I wanted to bring together the elegance of Edwardian fashion and the surrounding details that made the period unique.

Keola by Folakemi