Modes de ville, Salon d'hiver, 1853

This print illustrates the fashion of 1853, which was greatly influenced by Eugénie, the Emperor's wife. The article accompanying the image rejoices at the disappearance of high-waisted dresses that were so fashionable during the First Empire. Under the influence of Eugénie, dresses became more intricate and more voluminous, usually with crinoline and with very wide shapes. The imperial couple was in fact setting this fashion trend, which enhanced the magnificence of the government's celebrations and parties.