The Edwardian period was a turning point in fashion history; the Victorian ideal of strict, structured dress met the beginnings of a softer, more lighthearted view of fashion. Young people were anxious to shed not only the physical constraints of the “old” style, but also the social mores that up to that time had been intrinsically linked to clothing in general. It was a time of breaking through limitations, both physical and philosophical.

The fashions that resulted from these social growing pains became more flamboyant, with designers trying radically new and different silhouettes, colours, and textures. They broke rules left and right, pushing the envelope of what was considered ‘acceptable’.

Here are several beautiful Vogue pattern sketches and George Barbier drawings, illustrating the contrasting styles of the decade.