The new century ushered in a new era of fashion. The coronation of Edward VII began the Edwardian era. Edward’s style choices influenced men’s fashion and accessories. His wife, Queen Alexandra, inspired clothing design with her high collars and multiple strands of necklaces.

More women during this period worked outside the home and volunteered for causes they were concerned about, such as social injustice, public health, and safety.

The hourglass silhouette softened and gave way to a slender figure with sloped shoulders, small corseted waist, and slender hips. Long-line corsets, which reached mid-hip or below, facilitated a highly tailored look. In contrast, flowing dresses with the “pigeon” bust also became a favorite style for daywear. Skirts were slim at the top with skirt fullness below the knee.

“Lingerie dresses” were light-weight dresses had no confining stays, although corsets were still worn underneath. These informal dresses were made in white, off-white, or pale pastel cotton. Wide tucks, pin tucks, lace inserts, and bands of embroidery added to their beauty.

In the United States, Alice Roosevelt became a fashion icon when her father, Theodore Roosevelt, became President. She frequently wore a light shade of blue known as “Alice Blue”. This shade of blue was a favorite color for young women.