Final Fashion Paper Proposal
The first image I choose to focus on is an artistic gelatin silver print by Horst P. Horst (Parker). Meant to show a Mainbocher corset for advertising purposes, the photograph actually does so much more than that. It is like a study of the model’s body, with beautiful use of grayscale to capture the angles and curves of her body in an artful pose, while also showing how flattering the corset is to her figure. Furthermore, the photo looks modern, as if it could have been taken yesterday; it is quite surprising to learn that it is in fact from 1939. The model is unknown, but the photograph is extremely famous for its wonderful artistry and grace. It set the model for artistic, thoughtful, and creative fashion photography moving forward.
The corset itself, the Mainbocher corset, is very simple. It has a thick lace in the back and simple lines. It appears to be white in color. I find this simplicity striking, as it hugs the model’s body in the correct places to emphasize her curves and straight lines. The lace is loose for the photograph, but if it were tight, one can imagine how form-fitting it is, both stiff and soft at once to mold to the wearer’s body.
This work is deeply inspirational to me. Seeing this study of light and shadow on a model’s body to emphasize the shape and fit of a corset helps me understand how lines work. I would like to work with such simplistic yet flattering designs, with a simple structure that lets the wearer’s body do the work of conveying beauty. Sometimes, the most subtle clothes are the most beautiful because they show off the wearer, rather than calling attention to themselves.
The second photograph is of a famous Mexican American fashion model, Nena van Shlebrugge, wearing a red dress and a chunky silver necklace. The dress hugs her body but leaves a great deal to the imagination, implying modesty. Its cut is more fitting for a party, however, including the fun flair of the skirt at the waist. The color is more stunning than anything by the way it grabs your attention and then allows you to pay attention to the model’s face. The viewer has to look closely to notice the pattern in the dress’s fabric, which is undeniably simple but sparkly. Paired with the necklace, the entire outfit screams, “Night out.” I can imagine a model successfully pairing long black silk opera gloves with it.
This photograph is striking in its simple yet fun and flirty vibe, and that is inspirational to me. Its entire aesthetic and mood make me want to create similar outfits. The photo is for a magazine, but it could be a wonderful advertisement because it makes one think, “I need that dress to go out and have fun!” The dress really speaks for itself. Furthermore, I enjoy the model’s coy pose and how it shows off the outfit’s personality. This outfit is meant to be worn to events where the wearer wishes to be admired. It demands attention and admiration, which is why this photograph speaks to me so much.
I like the idea of designing statement clothes that have such personality. I wish to work with clothes who speak for themselves in this manner. Designs that grab one’s attention while flattering the model are certainly appealing to me. I like the straight lines that lead to a fun flare. Using bright fabrics with unique designs is certainly a design form I would like to work with in the future. I also like the way the dress does not show off much skin, leading to a more demure look certainly popular in the 1960s, around when this photo was taken. Since the 60s have never truly died in fashion, I believe designs like this can remain iconic, with a few modern updates, such as artful slits on the sides or lower backs. Furthermore, I can imagine using a sequined fabric to create a sparkly gown with a similar fun neckline and high, flared waistline.
Figure 1Horst
Figure 2Schlebrugge
Works Cited
Parker, Caitlin. “A Brief History of Fashion Photography.” Artnet News. 2014. https://news.artnet.com/market/a-brief-history-of-fashion-photography-32620.
