Fashion in Mexico at the end of the 19th century

Fashion is often considered an imprint of society over time that gives us an idea of what daily life was like during a particular decade or century. One of the main characteristics of fashion is that, for most of human history, it has been customizable, that is, mass production is something relatively new.

The resources required to create a single piece meant that its acquisition was limited, so the use of creativity was essential to making the garment always look like a new piece. In most cases, this was achieved through the use of accessories. Thus, this sample of garments and accessories is presented that depicts Mexico at the end of the 19th and beginning of the 20th century.

For the most part, the acquisition of clothing came from Mexican tailors. However, at that time, European couturiers were a world reference for their contributions to the creation of the clothing industry as we know it today.

In the 19th century, Charles Frederick Worth, father of Haute Couture, appeared and began to sign his garments and present annual collections in France. This character strongly influenced fashion in Mexico during the Porfiriato.

The textiles with which the clothes were made were, in their great majority, cotton, blanket, wool, or linen. On the other hand, people who could afford to wear Haute Couture garments brought from France used fabrics such as lace or silk.

Source: Cultura