Visiting dress

Jacques Doucet was first, and foremost, a connoisseur of art. Additionally, his passion for the refined and exquisite overflowed into his dealings with fashion, making him one of the finest French couturiers during the Belle Époque. The House of Doucet began as a family business, specializing in women's lingerie and laces, as well as articles of clothing for men. Founded in 1817, the company rose to fame under the hand of Jacques. The house was known for its luxurious offerings, which were worn and coveted by royalty, members of the elite society in both Europe and America, and actresses of the stage.

Worn by a lady of society during her afternoon calls, this dress is an excellent representation of the complexity of surface decoration and lace treatment which are quintessential Belle Époque devices denoting opulence and luxury. The treatment of the velvet is exemplary, for such an advanced technique as impressed velvet would only be available to French couture houses. The jacket and bodice are quite becoming, as the blousing of the underbodice creates a bolero effect which was a prevalent style during this period.