British Fashion: Published by The Hannibal Press

Georgian English Ladies’ Fashion: An Era of Elegance and Refinement:

Georgian English ladies’ fashion, spanning from 1714 to 1830, is renowned for its elegance, sophistication, and attention to detail. This period, named after the reigns of the four King Georges of Britain, saw dramatic transformations in women’s attire, reflecting the social, political, and cultural changes of the time.

Early Georgian Era (1714-1760):

The early Georgian period was heavily influenced by the Baroque and Rococo styles, marked by opulence and grandeur. Women’s fashion featured voluminous gowns with wide skirts supported by panniers (side hoops) that extended the hips. These dresses were often made of luxurious fabrics such as silk, satin, and brocade, and adorned with intricate embroidery, lace, and ribbon trims. The bodices were fitted and structured with stays (early corsets), which cinched the waist and emphasized a woman’s hourglass figure. Sleeves were generally elbow-length, ending in lace ruffles.

Mid-Georgian Era (1760-1780):

During the mid-Georgian era, fashion became slightly more relaxed but still maintained its elegance. The Robe à la Française, with its fitted front and flowing back, became popular. This style often featured a Watteau pleat, a loose box pleat that extended from the shoulders to the hem, creating a cascading effect. Fabrics continued to be rich and decorative, with pastel colours and floral patterns gaining popularity. Hairstyles grew increasingly elaborate, with towering powdered wigs decorated with ribbons, feathers, flowers, and even small trinkets.

Late Georgian Era (1780-1830):

The late Georgian period saw the influence of Neoclassicism, inspired by the art and culture of Ancient Greece and Rome. This era introduced the high-waisted, column-like silhouette of the Empire style, popularized by figures such as Empress Joséphine of France. Gowns became simpler and more flowing, made of lighter fabrics like muslin and often in white or soft pastel shades. The waistline moved up just below the bust, creating a graceful and elongated silhouette. Sleeves varied in length, from short puffed sleeves to long, tight ones. Hairstyles also became more natural, with softer curls and less elaborate decorations.

Accessories:

Accessories played a significant role in Georgian fashion, adding to the overall elegance and refinement. Gloves, fans, and parasols were essential items for a well-dressed lady. Fans were not only practical for cooling but also served as a means of communication and flirtation. Gloves, often made of kid leather or lace, added a touch of sophistication. Parasols protected delicate skin from the sun and were often intricately decorated. Jewellery, including necklaces, earrings, and brooches, was elaborate, featuring precious stones and intricate designs.

Footwear:

Footwear evolved throughout the Georgian period. Early on, shoes featured high, curved heels and pointed toes, often made of silk and embellished with buckles and embroidery. As the century progressed, heels became lower, and by the late Georgian era, flat-soled shoes with rounded toes became fashionable, reflecting the simpler styles of the time.

Outerwear:

Capes, cloaks, and mantles were popular forms of outerwear, providing warmth and style. These garments were often made of rich fabrics like velvet and lined with fur or silk. They could be plain or heavily decorated with embroidery and lace.

Influence and Legacy:

Georgian fashion was heavily influenced by the broader cultural movements of the time, including the Enlightenment and the rise of the middle class. Fashion magazines and the rise of the fashion industry began to influence trends, making stylish attire more accessible to a broader audience. The detailed craftsmanship and timeless grace of Georgian fashion continue to inspire modern designers, and period dramas often draw upon this era for costume design, keeping the elegance and refinement of Georgian ladies’ fashion alive in contemporary culture.

Fine quality digital prints on Hahnemuehle German Etching paper of the original 18th century, hand-coloured copper engravings in our archive. These are available in A3 and A2 sizes.

Featured Products:

Georgian Ladies Fashion: Portrait of a Lady: July: A3
Unknown Artist
Price: £45
Description: This exquisite print, “Portrait of a Lady: July,” published by The Hannibal Press in 2024, is part of a series of twelve, each representing a month of the year. This piece captures the timeless elegance and serene beauty of its subject, meticulously edited and re-coloured from the original 18th-century hand-coloured copper engraving. Printed on high-quality Hahnemuehle German Etching paper, this limited edition print (only 125 copies, each numbered in pencil) features the blind-embossed stamp of The Hannibal Press. The artist remains unattributed and unrecorded, making this a scarce and desirable image.

Georgian Ladies Fashion: Portrait of a Lady: October: A3
Unknown Artist
Price: £45
Description: This fine print, “Portrait of a Lady: October,” published by The Hannibal Press in 2024, is part of a series of twelve, each representing a month of the year. This piece captures the timeless elegance and serene beauty of its subject, edited and re-coloured from the original 18th-century hand-coloured copper engraving. Printed on high-quality Hahnemuehle German Etching paper, this limited edition print (only 125 copies, each numbered in pencil) features the blind-embossed stamp of The Hannibal Press. The artist remains unattributed and unrecorded, making this a scarce and desirable image.

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At Hornseys, we are dedicated to offering items that uphold the highest standards of quality and authenticity. Our collection of artwork is carefully curated to ensure that each edition is a valuable and authentic piece.

Here’s What Sets Us Apart:

Authenticity and Provenance: Each print is researched and verified for authenticity, ensuring you receive a genuine signature from the artist.
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Understanding the value and rarity of these items, we ensure that every aspect of your purchase meets the highest standards of quality and service. This includes:

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Explore Our Collection:

Visit Hornseys today to explore our exceptional collection of Georgian fashion prints. Whether you are an avid collector or looking for a unique historical piece, our selection offers something truly exceptional. Located since 1976 in Ripon in the picturesque Yorkshire Dales, we are recognized as a destination gallery for tastefully curated artwork, design, and fine books.

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