In America it was the Gilded Age, in the United Kingdom it was the Victorian era and in France it was La Belle Époque.
Dahlings, Welcome to the 1880’s
Inspired by Tissot’s fashion prints of the era, Art Gowns has designed its own gowns, and gone back in time to show them off. Made possible by Venus and the moon, we went through the the Tangle-Heart and moved backwards 137 years.
Rebecca, the first to land in 1888, went about setting up a fashion show at Le Chat Noir. Her palazzo pants, carefully hidden by the period’s draping fabrics, allowed her to move around without arousing suspicion.
The venue was a one night extravaganza at La Chat Noir in the Montmartre district of Paris.
Thought to be the first modern night club, it was opened on 18 November 1881 and closed in 1897.
NOW, Here’s Rebecca!
Thank you, Rene! We have a thrilling show tonight, so let me get right at it, and present les beaux modèles de la Belle Époque!
First out on the stage is Modèle de Robes d’Art, Shey. Shey is dressed for afternoon tea or “gouter” as known in Paris. Her fan’s print is inspired by the new Japanese aesthetics.
Next out is Gigi dressed for a night at the theare! Her asymetric ruffles play second fiddle only to her Statue of Liberty inspired diadème.
Now, back from her gown change is Mademoiselle Rene with a very Special announcement!
Thank you, Rebecca! Mes Chéris, all of us at Art Gowns put our design hats on and created a special La Belle Époque Super Hero outfit for Princess Blue Holly. Art Gowns presents:
Princess Blue Holly in la Belle Époque Super Hero Outfit
What an honour! Thank you to all! This is a momentous outfit! I love the boots, and they only take a half hour each to button up.
It must have been very difficult to be a female Super Hero in the 1880’s. So much beautiful fabric would make flying a bit of a challenge. Snagging would be an issue and the corsetry is somewhat confining when delivering the martial arts moves.
Check out the Freedom difference between 2025 and 1888! ……. aaaand back to Rebecca!
Thank you Princess Blue Holly! You look simply marvellous. That is one special outfit.
Perfect for taking the carriage to the fashion shops, Dale wears a travelling jacket of pinstripe twill, with brocade fishtail skirt completed with a voile tail under a ruched and layered silk bussel. A dainty reticule is the perfect accessory.
It’s a sunny day and Rene is back in another costume change. This is a miracle considering all the buttons she had to do up, as the zipper was not invented until 1917. She is off to the museum with a rose detail parasol and rose reticule.
It’s “dinner at eight” and the opera for Modèle de Robes d’Art, Marina. A rose print corset top with a panière effect from the waist to hips is a lovely accentuation to the fitted fishtail skirt.
Holly is off to a fancy party in white silk with red ruffle corset top and a skirt of silk Swiss dot. A lush red bow sets off the rose detailed bussel and tail with ruffles on the inside and out.
I’m sad to say the show has come to an end, buts let’s hear it for Mademoiselle Rene, who shall bid you adieu.
Mes Chéris, bon soir! We hate to leave, but it’s time to return to the future! Please enjoy Arabesque No.1 by Claude Debussy, while the beaux modèles de la Belle Époque make their departures.
No one saw when the AGM’s made their way back through the Tangle-Heart as contrails. All landed safely in the Bosque by Tim’s.
However, as Rene began her journey to the future she encountered a strange energy.
She landed back at Tim’s in Rebecca’s Black Bamboo, but she wasn’t herself, nor all there.
No one was worried! All were sure Princess Blue Holly would save her.
However and unfortunately, as you and I know, Rene IS Princess Blue Holly!
Princess Blue Holly & Rene Rosso Character © Resa McConaghy & Holly Rene Hunter
Since 2019
Visit them on their blogs!
Dale – Holly – Gigi – Marina – Shey
Visit Rebecca!
Art Gowns 
Fabulous post, and well done, all! The gowns are amazing, but I’m so glad we don’t have to wear them now (even if the felon and gang want to take us back to the Gilded Age and Robber Barons).
WP is not letting me comment on any posts unless I do so from Reader, which is very annoying.
Me too, Merril! So frustrating.
Hello Merril,
Thank you!
Lol! I’m glad we don’t have to wear the corseting, too. I designed movies where I had to dress actors in corsets. Nightmare!!!!!
Even the 50’s & 60’s with the pointy bras and girdles are harsh. If you don’t use the underpinnings, it just doesn’t look like the era.
Uch, WP and comments. I don’t have the Reader issue, yet (knock wood) but I have been going through comments hoops for a few months. The main thing I’ve figured for me to comment is: If I can’t see a green subscribe button on the lower right, I don’t comment. I keep refreshing until that green button appears.
Anyway…I’m off to early vote! Our 2 Canadian choices are the Liberal Carney (=Dems) OR our very own mini maple maga guy. (= cons – May we be spared!)
The big day is the 28th. My stomach is churning.
You’re welcome, Resa.
Women who wore such gowns had lady’s maids to dress them (and to take care of the clothing and washing), so they could be ornamental.
I just checked your page, and now it seems OK.
Good luck with the voting. We need our Canadian neighbors to stand for democracy!
Yes, and for those not so well off, your old maid aunt, or grandmother or other needy female relative earned their keep thusly.
Yikes! what a turnout for 1st day advance voting. Polls say the Liberals are leading. I hope they are right. 🤞🤞🤞
Give me La Belle Époque, France any day. What a fine ‘blog’. I enjoyed it. All the best, TOF
Thank you, TOF! I love that you come around!. Best to you and yours!
Dahlin, you are a wonder woman! La Belle Époque reimagined, fascinating and beautiful and… I LOOOOOOVE your drawings!
A huge huge hug and LOVE
…and slobbers of course
xoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxo
Ahh, Marina dahling! I love drawing you and all the AGMs!
THANK YOU!
If there were dog gowns, Hera would definitely be an ADM.
Admittedly, I found the Tissot exhibit most inspiring.
🧽🧽xoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxo🧽🧽
You know Hera would love to be part of AGDMs!
Dahling, YOU are inspiring!
xoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxo
xoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxo
LOLOLOLOL… Art Gowns Dog Models… Sigh!
xoxoxoxoxoxo
woooof!
W oxoxoxoxoxoxox F
Hi Resa, what an amazing set of beautiful dress designs. I am delighted by the details, flounces, frills, and assessories. I always loved dolls in period costumes and these pictures are a similar experience for me. A fabulous post for Easter Friday 🙏💜🐇🐣
Thank you dear Robbie!
It was a lot of fun drawing these fanciful, yes, “doll costumes”.
Other than the obvious impediments of wearing them, there was a lot of creativity, and a competition of frills, flounces, trapunto, embroidery, appliqué, cartridge pleats, godets, ruching, crocheting, montessori, crewelling, buttons, bows and more.
Most of these are lost craft arts. even cutting patterns- shapes to fit a body is lost to stretch in the fabrics.
Anyway, Im glad to have learned all that!
Happy Easter !
💜🌸🐇xo
I think people dressed much better in the past when more effort and care was taken with dressing. I prefer subtle to obvious in clothing but I’ve always been on old fashioned girl that way
I understand.
When I was into “Fashion”, I was not subtle, but was experimentative.
I got laughed at, and I got praised.
I guess one could say, wrote with clothes.
💜🐇💛
My sister is in advertising. She is not subtle but she wears nice clothes. She had flowered rain boots which see wore with a sundress. Very cool. Not okay for my work environment though.
Lol, although flowered rain boots sound funky and pretty.
It is important to dress correctly for work.
One doesn’t wear shorts in a coal mine.
Hope you’ve had a lovely Easter, if you celebrated, or just a fab day!
Hi Resa, we are traditional so we do celebrate Easter. I hope yours was also good.
Yes, it was terrific, thank you Robbie.
Although it was made more poignant when I woke up to find the Pope has passed away on Easter weekend, after giving his last blessing on Easter Sunday.
I don’t practice, but was raised Catholic, so have an understanding.
You did it again; such a delicate and beautiful design. Magnificent!
👍❤️🤗
P.S.: I sent a new email; I’m not sure if you’ve received it.🤔
Dear Aladin!
Thank you! This is a lovely comment.
YES, I received your mail. I will answer today! I am back in action (more than less) having done my taxes. Also, our election has been a huge distraction for me, with everything going on south of the border that effects us.
I just got back from early voting. I feel somewhat free at the moment.
xo💜🌸💖🌹
You have done it again, Sorceress! What gorgeous gowns you have created. You have the knack of making us all so beautiful! And to end with a most difficult situation! Oh my. (You are beyond creative).
Happy Easter weekend, Thunder!
This was my therapy project after the great balloon hand/antibiotic ordeal.
Of course Tissot’s art is quite inspiring to me.
I think I know how to get RR, aka PBH out of the situation. I just have to draw a bunch more gowns. LOL!
Thank you for being one of my models!
xoxoxo⚡️🐇💥xoxoxo
Happy Easter to you, Sorceress!
I have to go back and catch up. I didn’t realise you were suffering so.
Yes, of course it is!
I don’t doubt you for a second! You’re not a Sorceress for nothing!
I love that you have chosen me to be one!
xoxoxo 🧚🏼♀️🐣🪄 xoxoxo
Suffering is over!
Don’t worry about catching up!!!!!
Gosh, just trying to stay abreast is a job and a half. I’m not even good at that.
I adore all my AGM’s. You in your Bunny gown are on Gi’s blog tonight in the Fashion Show at the Coop!
xoxoxo⚡️🐇💥xoxoxo
Haha!
Yeah well… I always feel bad.
It IS a job and a half!!!
We adore you, Sorceress. I have to go see that.
xoxoxoxo 🧚🏼♀️🐣🪄 xoxoxo
Are you enjoying your job and a half?
Sounds more career than job. Sounds cool!
xoxoxo⚡️💥xoxoxo
I’m enjoying my job. I’ve never had one called a job a career. As long as I’m enjoying myself, I’ll stick around.
xoxoxo 🧚🏻♀️🪄xoxoxo
Yayay!
I would have stayed more active in film(which I loved), had Covid not come along.
The film world landscape changed dramatically after Covid. That was also due to technology and AI.
It’s a killer career due to irregular and long hours, intense deadline stress and fervent egos.
So, I figured, retire from film, you saved enough, and there’s so much to do, yet.
NOW, due to the orange ass, do I have enough $$$???
Anyway, on mental vaycay until the election is over. I hope Canadians chose well!
xoxoxoxo
Covid ruined so many things.
AI is ruining so many things.
I hear ya.
I like to think you have. Things will turn around, surely!
I feel ya. I am going out to vote later today 🙂
xoxoxoxo
xoxoxoxoxo
💞💞💞
VOTE!!!!!!
DONE!
YEEEEEEAAAAAHHHHOOOOOO!!!!
Yaya!
Hell, I found out my son actually went out and voted (he’s been rather lax in that department, much to my chagrin).
YAY that he voted!
My niece is 28. This is her second election. Her mom gave her the speech about how women suffered and fought to vote.
If you knew her mom, you’d know why I’m sure she will never miss an election.
She’s young idealistic and hasn’t been through a wringer, yet, so voting for the Green Party.
Still, I’m proud of her!
I have not been pleased with my two kids, to be honest. The youngest hasn’t and where she lives, she doesn’t even have a mailbox because it was destroyed so she gets no mail.
Yay that Iain did, even if I suspect he voted for PeePee because he loathes the Liberal party.
As for your niece, she voted so yay!
Pee Pee ??? Hahahahahahahahaha!!!!!!
And yet, you knew exactly who I was referring to 😉
Ohhhh yes!
And That is exactly what he will do to Canada if he wins!
Right.
I do not trust him. At all.
In 20 years in parliament, he has not soldiered or passed 1 bill.
He will privatize health care and get rid of a woman’s right to an abortion.
He will turn us into a mini America.
Yet, many sheeple are baaaaaaing along behind him, partly thanks to all the lies in the media, and LAZINESS to really explore the issues.
Has he been around that long? Bloody hell.
That’s what I fear. I had dinner (supper?) with a friend last night and he was saying the people in Quebec City will vote for him but the rest of Canada is smarter. I sure hope so.
Nice post and stories, like your Art Gowns drawings, beautiful! Thanks for sharing.
Thank you, Jean Marc! I LOVE drawing gowns.
Happy Easter weekend! xx
Same to you Resa, happy Easter!
💜🐇💛
Oh,oh, a cliff hanger! You have been busy! Maybe it does take a half an hour a boot to button them, but I’m sure it takes even longer to draw them all! You put in a huge amount of detail here, and so many drawings. They all are wonderful – you did a great job recreating this period but in your own style. They are beautiful, but I am sure not convenient! Poor Holly/Rene – how many quick costume changes did her duel identity have to make? She must have superpowers!
Trent, thank you!
So, this was the therapy project from my healing hand ordeal.
Lol, yes, buttoning up shoes is faster than drawing the shoes, let alone the entire outfit.
I do love drawing gowns, for some reason, and Holly and the other models have been great about letting me draw them.
Holly is always along with me through the entire project. It’s a lot of fun!
Hahaha! I wondered if someone would comment on the volume of Holly’s (Rene’s) outfits. I do find her … a muse … and LOVE drawing the red hair.
Then there’s AGM Holly… that’s a completely different person, which should be obvious because she has strawberry blonde hair.
RR/PBH is a superhero, and I’m still laughing about the 1888 superhero outfit.
So, this was one of my big projects. I have one more on the bookI read – Sexual Harassment, then the next big one is MOCA.
OH!!!! I voted today. (early voting) 🤞that the Liberals (=Dems) win! The big day is the 28th!
Glad you put in your vote! I hope Canada is 1000 times smarter than the US in its elections!
No quick change into the 1888 superhero outfit, that is for sure. The villain will be long gone before she can put the thing on. And, as you said, superhero moves might not be the easiest… lol, it is great.
As to RR/PBH, with this project you had a very clear black, white and red theme going, so that red hair really fit in.
So this was a fun project and the next is not as fun, but more important in the large scheme of things.
Me too, Trent, me too.
You know, there has always been a love for the USA in Canada. We copied many things you do/did, but not as good. (Not counting our singers, actors, comedians, etc. that became famous in the US)
Even now, in spite of all the bs from down south, there is a mini maple maga movement, attached to the conservatives.
They are behind in the polls, so I hope the polls are right.
Yes, the next project is important. I do some odd things, but reading a reference book is new. I’m glad I did.
There will be some street art in between, then MOCA. That will be fun, and intellectually stimulating. Egads I love art.
Hahaha, got lost in the Art Gallery on Wednesday.
“got lost in the Art Gallery” – lol, I can imagine. I do love art and visiting galleries, not sure if I have ever been lost, unless you mean “time has totally escaped without me realizing it because I was too absorbed.”
Actually, I was lost, lost…like as in I needed a compass.
It really is a massive gallery and they are increasing the space.
Nonetheless, I did not panic, and wound up seeing art I had not planned to.
We have a massive collection of “The Group of Seven” art.
I found myself in that area. It was intriguing… but there is no paintings of people, just mountains, lakes, clouds, snow, more mountains.
It opened an interesting floodgate of thought on early Canadian history.
Perhaps not my fave, but they really did have a unique style that remains to today. Like Impressionism or realism, it is a movement of its own.
Oh, I also wound up in the Rembrandt show.
BOY, talk about dark backgrounds. There were also some paintings by pupils of his. They were almost all a man, chest up, contemplating a skull in darkness.
I found that intriguing, and immediately thought of Hamlet holing the skull – “Alas, poor Yorick! I knew him.”
It is also intriguing that Rembrandt and Shakespeare’s time on this earth did overlap.
I have been “lost” in that I couldn’t find a painting I had seen earlier no matter how long I search. I knwo it was down here… Oh, wait, have I been here before? But I could always figure out how to get to key places. Still, I’ve heard of worse things than being lost in an Art Gallery!
I do like Rembrandt quite bit. I think it was the National Gallery in DC where I was close to being lost. I kept going back to the Rembrandt (I forget if they had more than one) to reorient myself and still never figured out how to get back…
Alas poor Yorick! Yes, close to the same time frame. Hamlet is my favorite of the plays, but you may know hat already.
I think didn’t know that about Hamlet. Or it could have slipped my mind.
What a great play!
Mine is Romeo and Juliet. (LOL)
As a matter f fact I own a DVD of Zeffirelli’s 1968 . Brilliant!!!!!!!
Michael York was amazing as Mercutio. I met him in my early film days when I was in the sewing room.
I tripped over my gushing tongue many times.
Oh my! I see Zeffirelli made Hamlet (1970) . OMG I’ve got see that!!!!
Truthfully, I have seen a few version of Romeo and Juliet, but I don’t think I have seen a film version of Hamlet. Not sure if I want to – I have my own personal interpretation 😉
Ahh, I understand.
Look at you go! I love your artwork ❤
Thank you, Eunice, and I feel the same about your artwork.
Happy Easter weekend, and please pet Brady for me!
💜🐇💛
He is right beside me licking Alfredo sauce out of a dish of leftovers 🙂 I also took him trucking today in the 56 then home to groom him lol minus water he hates baths.
Aww, what a great pal! xo 💜🐇💛
xo
Such a wonderful post! 💗
Your drawings, as always, are simply fabulous
Thank you, Luisa! I so love drawing gowns, and I’m happy you like them.
Happy Easter 💜🐇💛
You are welcome my dear Resa. It is a pleasure, as always!
Happy Easter to you 🐇🕊️
💜🐇💛
It must be a dream. I am in the 1800’s fashion hub of Parle adorned in an original by the one and only renowned Canadien fashionista Ms. McConaghy . The AGM’s are gorgeous in their originals , each and every one a miraculous creation as we make our way back through the Tangle Heart.
We can always count on you dear Resa to dress us in the finest fashions and whisk us off too dreamy destinations with the flick of a pen.
You have the gift of making dreams come true and once again give created a world so beyond, the only way to arrive there is through your enormous power to transform the everyday into as intoxicating.experience. Thank dear one, this is truly a dream , you’re art a dream catcher that we never want to return from.
Adore you ❤️
Debussy’s Arabesque is dreamy traveling music. 🎶 xoxoxo
Agree!
Thank you for recommending classical music!
Funny it never crossed my mind.
I forgot the music credit, which I will add. We share it this time!
Happy Easter weekend!
xoxoxo🐭🐇🐭xoxoxo
Aww…Meece!
Thank you, from the bottom of my heart!
It’s been such a wonderful joy knowing you and drawing you, and for you.
You have brought out so much hidden ability in me. You are my muse!
We do need to dream positive things, wonderful experiences and have fun. It’s amazing the way the arts allow us to do just that. Your poetry, all poetry, art, books, music and on are a key.
You say wonderful things, I appreciate all of your words, and take them to heart!
I voted today, which is why I’m slow on answering comments.
I adore you, and on we go!
xoxoxoxoxoxo
It’s fascinating to see how very gifted you are in so many areas. I’m not surprised though, you’re just naturally creative and inventive. I love this post , the art is beautiful, the plot delightful, the scenes fascinated , and I’m still laughing over “ she wasn’t all there”. I’m really not!!
Hope your voting turns out well!!!
Have a happy Easter dear Resa. Let me know if the band is playing !!🎶
xoxoxoxoxo
xoxoxoxoxoxoxoxo
Thank you dear Holly Meece #1!
I’m over the moon you got me into drawing. When I look back at the early RR/PBH posts, I have to say that my drawings have really improved.
Wow! What a great turnout for 1st day of advance voting! I hope my guy wins. Someone has to see us through the catastrophe 🟠💩 has caused up here.
A few more months and the real pain will be REAL, even in the states.
The band should be playing next week.
Have a wonderful Easter Weekend!
💜🐇💛💜🐇💛💜🐇💛
You will need a strong leader with integrity up there.
We are fighting a war without the help of laws as those have been trashed by these corrupt politicians and the weak minded followers. We will always back our amazing neighbors and friends to the north. ❤️🤗
It is a crazy time!
Well, April 28th will tell us who will lead us, and if they have a majority to take a strong lead.
💜🐇💛 ❤️🤗 xoxo
Fabulous post. Fantastic drawings of gowns and models. I was wondering about that ruckus in Rebecca’s black bamboo. But who will save her? Biting my nails.
Tim,
Sorry about all the racket! RR made a hard landing!
Good thing I’ve already figured out how to get her out of the mess. Of course, I have to draw everything first!
Don’t bite your nails all the way down!!!!!
Thank you for everything dear Tim!
Happy Easter! 💜🐇💛
That’s a relief.
Yes, and you’ll love it! xx
these are absolutely stunning
Thank you, Beth! I just love drawing gowns.
Happy Easter! 💜🐇💛
we’re all happy that you cannot help yourself!)
Lol!!! 💜🐇💛
Fantastic drawings, Resa, and fun narrative.
Thank you, Jet! I appreciate your comment. Art is such a great escape.
💜🐇💛
Amazing post, Resa! The beautiful visuals, the references to other bloggers… Fantastic!
Thank you Dave! It was good feeling fun making this post!
And you gave your readers a good feeling, too. 🙂
Yayay!!! Thank you! I intended to. 🤗
🙂
This post rocks, Resa! It’s so good!
Thank you so much Kymber. I LOVE drawing gowns.
Wow, what a gorgeous fashion show and narration. Amazing the clash of the three different countries and their eras. I’ll definitely choose La Bell Epoque! Gorgeous finery as always. Although, I’m so glad I didn’t live in that era. Just too much material for this girl who seems to be always flashing. LOL. Easter hugs ❤ xox ❤
Debby!
Thank you, and for the BlueSky repost!
Lol… well, it looks so pretty, but the corsets were killer!
Also, it was fun to draw. xoxo
LOL – Happy Easter weekend 💜🐇💛
Oh ya, I can only imagine the corsets. Oye!
Easter hugs! 💜🐰💚
OYE! xoxoxo 💜🐇💛
💙😂🤣😍💜
Hey, Debby, do you remember an 80’s Toronto band – Rough Trade? xoxoxo
OMG, of course I do. There used to be a dive place near Vaughn Rd They used to do gigs with Carol Pope! I sometimes went to watch. ❤ xxxxx
I knew you would!
The guitar player and her writing partner – Kevan Staples – passed away a couple of weeks ago. (74) I just found out yesterday. I met him briefly at gigs a couple of times, but did not know him.
Still, it put me in a pensive mood yesterday.
xoxoxoxo
Wow! Maybe we met back then and didn’t realize? 🙂 🙂 xoxoxo
Hahaha! Maybe… Norm’s first band, “Alta Moda”, warmed up for “Rough Trade”, who warmed up for “Robert Palmer” when he had his big hit “Addicted to Love”. (1 night/3 bands)
Maybe you were there?
xoxoxo
NO I wasn’t there but now wish I was. I did not know RT warmed up for Palmer. Omg I used to love him, God bless. 🙂 The golden days xoxox
YES! The golden days…
So now, what? The molden days? 😅
If it can’t be fun, it’s funny!
Sigh!
xo🌹❦🎶
Lol I love it. You’re hilarious! Must make new golden times. 🙂 ❤ xox
Agree! xoxo🌹
What a fun flight of fancy Resa! The sketches are amazing and the weaving of the story with blogging friends is delightful. And then there are your gorgeous real life gowns, especially the Jade creation. Happy adventures!
Thank you dear Brad!
First it was relaxing drawing everything. Then it was fun making the post.
I must say, there are so many lovely bloggers out here. I feel blessed!
Happy Easter weekend! 💜🐇💛
Yes, we have a kind and talented community.
Absolutely! 💜🐇💛
Ooh, la la, ladies, what a feast for the eyes!!
Thanks Liz!
It’s lovely to look at, but wearing these fashions, painful. Best just to draw them, and enjoy the pretty fantasy.
You’re welcome, Resa! The thought of torturous corsetry did cross my mind.
😵💫
It’s interesting that many women died of a punctured lung when the whalebone in their corset got brittle and broke.
That’s horrendous. And it would have been easier to subjugate women if they could barely breathe!
Sigh… Seems like some are still taking our breath away!
Sigh for sure . . .
uch…
A wonderful show, Resa! The gowns are glamorous. I’d love to dress up for an evening (despite all those buttons). Hehe. ❤ ❤ ❤
For 1 evening, it’s fun. Knowing you don’t have to wear the corset every day is a lesson in how our sisters lived.
Working on period films, no one enjoyed getting trussed up, but boy, what happiness when wrap was called.
💜🐇💛💜🐇💛
LOL I can imagine.
The waist line has become a waste line.
Lol. Yes.
😅
enjoy your weekend, all of you!!!
💫✨🐇🐣🐥🐰🐥🐣🐇✨💫
YOU TOO, Graham!
💜🐇💛💜🐇💛💜🐇💛💜🐇💛💜🐇💛💜🐇💛
🫡✌🫶🌟️✨💫
Terrific show, everyone. Loved going back in time. Thanks.
Thank you John!
We thought we might bump into you, but then we realized we needed to be in 1825.
💜X O🐇 💛X
Or 1925 would work too. 😀X
That’s a different fashion era. The Roaring 20’s is a fascinating time. I did a post with drawings, but gowns, not flapper dresses.
Not many gowns, but lots from the Ziegfeld Follies (1907–1931).
O💃🏽
😊X
(❦🐇❦)X
🥕X
🥕X 🥕X
🥕X 🥕X🥕X
🏆 OX 🏆
😊X
This is a beautiful post, Resa! Those drawings are amazing.
Thank you so much, Dan! I love drawing gowns! I also have fun making posts, like. you do!
The belles of every single ball worth attending are here!
You have superheroes (or is it superheroines?) and you have martial artists, and boots that don’t quit and buttoned up beauties . . . I mean, who could ask for anything more? And perhaps an even more pertinent question would be, WHY would you ask for anything more when you have everything right here?
Beautiful gallery of beauties.
Are you Oz? Pulling the strings from behind the long curtains?
Oh dear, I answered this (and about 10 other comments) in my dreams.
Dahhhhling, I adore you and your buttoned up boots comment.
Truth is outside of some food, a roof and sleep (well a toilet is handy) art keeps me alive.
You are right, I have everything.
AS a bonus, life has allotted me a bed pal and a cat.
Thank you Marc! My beauties are my art.
Oz… no. I think he became a third rate TV doctor and moved to the states.
I do have a curtain, though, and it’s scheduled to be made into a gown.
Mucho amo,
MUAH
You do that too?
Ha! Glad you dig the comment.
And you bring such an electric appeal to these places. It’s a magic you create with each capture and post. Gets me every single time.
You do.
Bonus round!
They are!
Oh . . . him!
Yaya!
MUAH!!!
MUAH!!!
Lol!!!
(Thank you 🌹)
MUAH!!!
MUAH!!!
What Joy that was to read and see all of your wonderful designs Resa for all of your beautiful guests.. I too would wonder how such a super hero could fly swiftly with all that yardage of fabric… But then we know how magical those heroines are.. 🙂
Oh and I spotted your recycled gown… I must have missed that too, so I will be going to look at that creation next…
Have a wonderful Weekend Resa… I will be quieter over the weekend… I am putting away all technical devices for Nature weekend xx ❤ 😀
much love my friend xx ❤ x 💖🌹🌹🌹
Sue, I hope you had a wonderful Nature rest.
I have much joy during the solace of drawing. These “Gowntoon” stories give me inspiration to create a positive world, and I know the good energy spreads.
Yes, super heroes will always get around easily no matter how much fabric is in their capes, as long as the power comes from the heart. Just my mushy take.
Thank you for the visit and taking a bit of time to check out the goings on over here.
I appreciate you!
Happy gardening!
❦🌹❦❦🌹❦❦🌹❦
Oh what a delightful post, Resa and of course to our wonderful Holly, Tim and Rebecca too. This is dreamy and I loved the 80’s and these ammmmmaaazing gowns fit for our Holly Renee and an odd to the Tangle Tree Heart that she will always be to us. It is soooo sad to see it go but she will carry on and keep sharing her magic, just like you! Thanks for sharing this wonderful creation my friend and Happy Easter to you!!!! Happy Fun Fri-Yayyyyyyy 💓💗
Happy Easter dear Cindy!
I hope you had a wonderful one with your lovely family.
It’s so much fun to draw and make up these stories.
However, it is sad about the Tangle-Heart tree. The good news is that Tim has many pics of it in his collection, and I have many in mine. It will live on in the Gowntoon Tales here on Art Gowns.
Okay, it’s back to non holidays soon. Be well, and be happy! xo❦🐇❦
<y lord, this is epic xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx You. every gown, every model is not jsut amazing, you have their personaliies AND let me tell you…see tha Black Cat night club poster?? THAT is on our summer bedroom wall. And that bedroom is mainly glass over and above our garden so very little wall sapce for pics xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
Shey,
Lol!
I just couldn’t control myself.
Everyone had to have a gown, and I had to make up a story, and on and on.
How cool is it that you have a Black Cat poster? Totally cool!!!!
Interesting that you have a summer bedroom. Is that for coolness in the summer heat?
As always thank you so much for being a fab model and letting me draw you in my Art Gowns!
xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
Gorgeousness!
Thank you dear Cindy!
💜🐇💛
★ ⁺. ⊹ . ⊹ ★ ⁺.
⊹ ★⁺.
(\_(\ /)_/)
( ) ( )
/ | | \
( O | | O )
That looks like a gown!!!!
Thank you, Cindy!
I reblogged it off of Holly’s blog, since I got to her’s first. I LOVE MY GOWN. I am thrilled to be included and to be wearing one of your amazing designs. The story is great, the gowns are stunning and it’s a period I just love. The music is perfect, by the way. Can’t thank you enough and what a truly wonderful post. 🥰
Thank you Gi!
I love the Fashion show. I need to find the reblog.
You outdid yourself this year.
Thank you so much!!!!
Will there be a Halloween party at the Coop this year?
xoxoxoxoxo
Resa, a cliffhanger? What will we do now?
Seriously, you’ve outdone yourself with these drawings! This is my favorite post ever. They’re utterly splendid. My favorite is the hobble skirt/dress with those endless buttons. I’d hate to try and wear it, but OMG it’s gorgeous. Huge hugs.
Teagan!
Thank you! I do love drawing gowns, so it is not a wonder I was inspired by Tissot.
Agree, hobble is hobble, and all of the dresses require serious corsetry. NOT a comfortable time, but oh so pretty to look back upon.
Thank you for this fabulous comment!
Hobble Hugs!
(they’re good hugs because it’s easy for them to stay)
Haha. ❤
💛🐇💜
I can’t comment on your Joni Mitchell article. There was already yesterday something wrong with WordPress. Well I read it and I see that you work really much for your articles, they are really comprehensive and very well written. It’s really pleasant to read articles which have been written in the pro way. The artwork is very interesting too, so emotionally made. You really have the pro eyes and ears 😊 Happy Holidays 🌺
Thank you warmly Jean!
Don’t worry about not being able to comment on my Joni post.
I did shut off comments for that post.
l’ve been drawing portraits, and doing a series on Music Stars, with my friend and muse, Holly.
She writes the bios, and I draw the portraits. So, she makes the post, and I answer comments over on her blog.
I reblog on my blog, and shut off comments.
Otherwise there are too many comments. I already have a hard time to keep up with comments.
Have a wonderful Easter weekend, too! 💜🐇💛
You are beautiful!
So you are Resa and you draw and make these beautiful dresses?
I make each dress and use no machines.
I sew them entirely by hand. They take 3 to 9 months each to make.
Also, I buy no new materials.
Each gown is made from old clothes, curtains, doilies, lace, NOS (new old stock) basically cast offs.
I call it “sustainable glamour”. We don’t need to impose on nature’s NEW and limited resources to create beauty.
The one I am making now is my biggest challenge, as I am using plastic mesh that is headed for landfill. We’ll see ifI can pull this off!
Thank you for your interest!
You are special.
Wow I appreciate very much handmade products. You have a good ability to concentrate, 9 months is quite a challenging time to work on the same dress. Your attitude is great when it comes to materials, I agree with you. I think all depends on how skillful one is and when doing things as you do something different comes out and that’s great. We all should protect nature. You have quite a challenge going on now 😊
Interesting coincident, you write ”You are beautiful!”, I will publish a rock song in 8 and half hours about beautiful girls👍👍👍
I will check it out!
Very kind of you 😊 I am a classical musician by my profession and Rock and Popular music is just a hobby for me but it’s really fun to make it 😋 You are skillful at fine arts 👍
Ahh, a classical musician. Do you play in an orchestra, or do studio work?
I have an education for the piano and guitar and composing music. Nowadays I mainly compose music. I have always liked it and being on the road is pretty hard. I have my own music studio.
Sounds great!
You are very talented, and it’s a wonderful thing that you have your own studio.
Yes, I imagine being on the road is difficult.
I have experience going out of town on location shoots when making movies.
Long days, hotel life, setting up and taking down, not so great food and basically an unhealthy lifestyle, often with alcohol and drugs. Although, I was good at avoiding the latter, and carried my own vegetarian foods.
❦🌹
I see that you know exactly what there is on the road life. Therefore being a classical musician is the way easier than being a popular music musician. I’ve been also there but just 15 years. I’m also a music teacher but I found pretty soon that the pedagogical work is not for me. Composing music and the studio works are good for me. I love to live a simple and peaceful life. I don’t drink or smoke at all, healthy life is cool. I also draw and paint, when I studied I specialized to women, a woman is very challenging and beautiful object to paint and I love beautiful girls😋❤️
Love that La Chat Noir picture, I got a book recently called Cats in Art by Alix Pare and it’s in there. The book has a lovely velvet-like back cover (like stroking a cat).
Maybe you should buck the content trend and do a Flow review on here, eh? Eh? Eh? Eh? Eh? EH? 🐈⬛
Your new book sound neat.
I dunno? Maybe. So… cats in gowns???
Hey, I just realized that Flow backwards is Wolf.
What does that mean?
xx
Wow, amazing work, Resa! Just breathtaking! I love your use of red, black and white; it’s so visually striking and really makes an impact in such an elegant way! My favorite is the fitted fishtail skirt and parasol: c’est tres chic! I’d love to wear one of these to the opera or something (although, in my case, they’d need to be plus size, lol!). I can always dream! 😊💜👗
Thank you, Ada!
At first I did straight pencil drawings. After all, I was inspired by Tissot’s work, and it was all black & white.
However, the pencil could not live up to the intensity of the ink in his prints.
So, I added he black and red inks.
Still, not as intense, but they truly became my own.
Yes, you. can dream.
You know, today’s idea of beauty is homogenized to the point of pain.
Everyone, no matter how they looked, age, or what size they were got to dress in the latest fashion and be beautiful. (If they could afford it)
Queen Victoria is a great example.
I love the stars of silent and early film, before there was specificity applied.
Jean Harlow was considered a great beauty of her time. Today, would she even get in the door.
I could go on.
My first and only real art classes were in “Fashion College”. I learned to draw unrealistic female figures, so I lean on that. However, I do wish I had some life drawing under my belt.
Thank you for this lovely comment, and getting me going! Lol!
I just saw your mail, and will answer anon. Ye We Transfer has worked for me before. I am EXCITED!!!!!!!
Happy Easter!
💜🐇💛
It is a bit overwhelming to see so much in one post. A bit like Tim’s post. You get so much in one visit, an unbelievable amount of talent, entertainment, writing, or in this case, a description of the extraordinarily fitting styles of clothing for this stunning period and designed for such a phenomenal poetress.
Sometimes I find your talent mouth-dropping. Honestly, I can not imagine where you get all your opulent ideas for your creations. Your ability to design period pieces is so inspiring.
Including Tim’s photography and the disappearance of Holly during the show was an exceptional piece of creativity and mystery to add to a collection. I loved the work that Tim did and hope somehow the tangle-heart tree can reshape itself, that nature will heal it, and it will look very close to its old self.
It truly is difficult to pick a favorite design as they are all so stunning. I don’t know how women could breathe, but I love watching historical true films for the designs, history, and jewelry as well. PBS has put out a new show on Queen Marie Antoinette. She was said to have worn hairpieces (pouf) that were several feet high.
You are quite an amazing artist. Your designs are beyond fabulous. I did not know that every stitch was hand-made. I knew you designed to fit due to your extensive work with stars but I had no idea how much work went into each design. I can not imagine.
I truly enjoyed the No.1 by Claude Debussy, and watched the entire show of artwork in the background, and enjoyed that so much. Thank you for this spectacular show and all the time you all put into preparing it, and Resa, I am in awe. Great big hugs and admiration coming your way – Happy Easter and crossing my fingers that the April 28th election goes well for the liberals in Canada. It certainly didn’t for us.
Dear Joni,
Lol, I never think I’m putting too, much in a post.
I do small ones, but every so often I feel the need to make a “Production”.
I think that comes from working in film, where it’s always a big production.
Even before film, Fashion Shows were productions. I designed lines of clothes. Again, productions.
Ideas come from everywhere. I look outside my window and get ideas. Life is creativity, and life feeds life, so inspiration abounds all over the place.
Yes, Marie Antoinette was an intriguing creature, albeit callous and ignorant within her wealthy confines. She was a Fashion Influencer of her day.
I have already voted.
I sure hope the “orange (conservative) party” don’t win. I say orange because they think like the orange man, but are brainwashed and aren’t paying attention to what he’s been doing. It’s quite frightening.
Joni, thank you so much for taking time to look what I’m up to with my hand sewing and recycling.
You are a dear heart.
As soon as the book arrives, I will email you. It could come on Tuesday. There is no mail here on Monday.
Okay sending love, Happy Easter and have a fab week ahead!
💜🐇💛
Well it is a lot of work and I appreciate the effort that you put into a post. Yes, brainwashing is certainly something that is going on here, and it is horribly sad, and yet other than voting, which if we don’t get out to vote, then we have not used the freedom that took centuries to get for women. Slowly, they continue to take away more freedoms. So it is a frightening time in history. Yet we go on. I hope you have an amazing weekend. Big hugs, Joni
Thank you, Joni!
It is a nerve wracking moment. I wish the best for America, and the world.
I’ll do what I can in my small way, beginning with creating as much good energy as possible.
BIG HUGS back to you, and I enjoyed your new prose. I commented on Michelle’s blog!
Excellent write!
Happy Easter Weekend, Resa and all the fabulous ladies!! Ohhh what fun!! I adore these drawings; they are exquisite and beautifully detailed!
Every single gown is just lovely; I love Shey with the Japanese-inspired fan print!!
I must say I have a thing for silky Swiss dot fabric, so I adore Holly’s fancy party outfit!
Wow, how I’d LOVE to see these made for real! I bet they’d be a showstopper!
Princess Blue Holly in the La Belle Époque Super Hero Outfit is momentous indeed. “the boots… only take a half hour each to button up” Mwahahaha!! She must have their ‘ladies in waiting’ to help her get dressed, but then again, she is a superhero, so she can get dressed up like this instantly 😀
Thanks for the phenomenal post, Resa!! Have a blessed + wonderful Easter Sunday!! 😍❦ ♡ ♥😍
❦🌹❦
Happy Easter, Ruth!
Honestly, I never thought Easter and Happy went well together… “Pensive Easter” or something like that seems more appropriate, but that’s just me.
So, write the movie! I can make these, although I would need a team. I know you enjoy period design.
I wondered why there was no 3rd season of “The Gilded Age”, but now I see there is one and will be premiering in the early summer.
Yes, the ladies in waiting.
I love the historic telling of Empress Eugénie de Montijo Bonaparte ( Bonaparte III’s wife -1852-70)
She had ..I think 7 mannequins that could all be prepared with her next outfits.
They were prepared in a closet/prep room, which was directly above her dressing room.
She changed for court many times a day. When it was time to change, she would go into her dressing room, where a mannequin had been LOWERED through the floor. The outfit she had on would be dressed onto a naked mannequin, while the next one was removed from the dressed mannequin and dressed onto her body.
She was a bitch, though. She would dictate themes/colours for court dressing. If she did not like your outfit, you would be banished from court for the day, maybe for life, or possibly jailed.
Talk about stress!
Anyway, thanks for checking out the post. I’m thrilled you like it!
Have a fab rest of Easter! ❦💜🌹🐇🌹💛❦
Man, if I had the funds I’d definitely make a movie (or series) with you as the costume designer!! Your talent knows no bounds, girl! 😍💓🤩💕💯
I’m thrilled the 3rd season of The Gilded Age is coming, I love that series so much and the costumes are absolutely sumptuous!
Is there a movie/series based on Empress Eugénie de Montijo Bonaparte? That would be fascinating to watch. Darn, she’s got 7 mannequins for her outfits, that’s outrageous! Imagine being banished (or worse, jailed!) for picking a wrong outfit for someone! Yikes!
Btw, speaking of period pieces about an empress, have you seen Corsage? It’s about Empress Elizabeth of Austria (Sissi), dolized for her beauty and renowned for inspiring fashion trends. You might enjoy that if you haven’t seen it: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt11992694/?ref_=nm_knf_t_2
Ruth,
Thanks for the link! The costumes looks fabulous.
There doesn’t appear to be a movie about Empress Eugenie.
She is not really a beloved character in French history, yet her story is absolutely fascinating.
Also, her husband, the 2nd Bonaparte has always been in the shadow of Napoleon.
He is not that intriguing, but Eugenie sure is.
There’s a book – “The Way She looks Tonight”. It tells the tales of 5 women, who got where they were going, partly because of her looks via her clothes.
Marlene Dietrich, The Duchess of Windsor, Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis, Elinor Glynn (became the first female screenwriter in early Hollywood) and Eugenie Bonaparte.
Have the best week!
The book could become a movie of 5 mini films, in one.
Merveilleux! Merveilleux! Encore! 👏🏻
Merci beaucoup, mon ami! ❦🌹
Wow, what a fabulous post, Resa! The gowns are gorgeous, but anything you draw is gorgeous! I continue to be awe of your talent. And I’m also grateful that styles have changed for comfort. 🙂 The narrative is incredibly creative just like your book reviews. A big thanks to Rebecca, Tim, Holly, and you for such an awesome show! I hope you had a nice Easter! Hugs 💞💐
Thank you, Lauren!
Pardon the tardy reply, but I’m back and forth on my 2 blogs and dizzy as a top.
Thank you about my drawing. It’s such a comforting escape.
YES, the period gowns are pretty, but the corsets are killer!
I had a lovely Easter, and trust you did too!
💞💐💞💐
No worries, Resa! I get it! I’m glad you had a lovely Easter; we did too. Hugs for a great weekend. ❤️🤗
xoxoxoxoxo🌸🍒xo🌟
Ohhh No!
I don’t see any of my comments on your blog.
PLEASE check your Spam.!
There should be 4 or 5 comments.
Thank you, Lauren!
xoxoxoxo
Thanks, Resa! I found them in spam which is weird! Thank you! I’m reading comments now. Happy Friday! xoxoxoxo
YAYAYAY!!!
Spam…it’s like being in blog jail!
🌸🍒xo🌟xo – Extra love and hugs!
Blog jail, too funny! xoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxo
Lol…. but not when you’re in it!
xxoxoxoxoxooooxoxoxo
Truth! 😁😂😍❤️
😂😍❤️😂
Love, love, love! What an elegant collection 💞
Thank you Layla!
Please check your SPAM!
I left a comment on your blog, and I don’t see it!
YIKES. Spam spreads. Next thing I’m in everyone’s Spam.
Thank you!
Marked you NOT SPAM! Can’t stand when WordPress does that 🙃
I know! Why?
THANK YOU, Layla.
I’m answering from my other blog. (Graffiti Lux Art & More)I’m too lazy to log out of there, then into here, then out of here, then back into there…LOL!
I have a big deal book review on Sexual Harassment going live at 6:am, and am doing last minute editing.
Again, THANK YOU!!!
Superhero Slash! Mode✍🏼👗❤️👏
You got it!
Lovely post. And I’m glad to learn the year in which the zipper was invented. It’s an extremely important invention, though nobody thinks twice about it anymore.
Thank you, for your visit and comment! I’m glad you enjoyed the post.
So true about the zipper.
Also, pardon the tardy reply. I’ve been logged out for several weeks.
Hello my gorgeously inspiring Resa artista, this artwork-post just TOO gorgeous!!! I feel super inspired after taking in all those fabulous drawings, the pics and the super interesting fashion info!!! Thank you for sprinkling some enchantment on my day. SO FAB! Lots of love, Maria Elena xoxo
Thank you for visiting Maria Elena!
Enchantment is needed these days.
How are you? Are you blogging?
I’ll check your site! If you are nit blogging, I will write you!
xoxoxoxoxo
Hi darling, thank you for your reply:)
No, not back to blogging yet, just focusing on making ends meet… but still being creative, of course!!! Drawing, singing, writing, and improving my French:)
How are you darling?? Would LOVE to hear from you! I will email you my normal day to day email adress shortly:)
xoxoxoxo, sending lots of LOVE! I think of you often!!! Thanks for being such a LIGHT 🙂 xoxo
I’ll write tomorrow.
I got your email! yayayayay
xoxoxoxoxoxoxo
YAY!!! Awww thank you for your DELIGHTFUL email:)) Will email back on the weekend. Big hugs!! xoxoxoxoxoxo
Appreciate the journey through history in the world of fashion – including the fashion eras. Your gowns are unique, creative and beautiful.
Thank you so much! It may not be the usual art form, but it’s what I do, and I thank you!
Pardon for the tardy response. I have been away from this blog for a few weeks.
Art does come in a large variety of forms – you’re welcome!
You’ve beautifully captured the essence of different fashion eras
Thank you so much! I appreciate your comment.