Nineteenth Century Fashion from the Era of Empires to the Belle Epoque: Charles Federick Worth and Empress Eugénie de Montijo

Inspired by recent scholarship concerning the role of fashion as a reflection of the political, social and economic aspects of its time, this series looks at the changing nature of “la mode” and the players (empresses, designers, and influencers) who drove fashion during the nineteenth century. Starting with Charles Frederick Worth, considered the father of haute couture, the series will explore the impact of style and attire on European empires, including the role of taste makers such as the Empress Eugénie de Montijo (Second French Empire), Empress Elisabeth (Sisi) (Austrian Empire), and Queen Alexandra (British Empire). In a nod to the 2025 Costume Institute exhibition, the final session will examine men’s fashions and the rise of the dandy.

This class will focus on Charles Federick Worth and Empress Eugénie de Montijo.