Evening Dress, circa 1912
Anonymous Donor
Handbag, date unknown
Donated by George Randall

The period leading up to World War I is often referred to as "La Belle Epoque." The contorted torso of the "Gibson Girl" gave way to a style with more freedom of movement. This was an era of elegant, graceful lines. Although the torso was gently released, the stride became limited, giving rise to the term "hobble skirt."

This lovely beaded evening gown from the time period of the Titanic's voyage has all the hallmarks of clothing from "the beautiful epoch." The dress consists of the finest silk, lined in an assortment of heavier silks, netting and lace. The top layer is hand-beaded in crystal beads, some with a (now tarnished) silver interior. The sweep of the skirt is in keeping with the very fashionable 1912 asymmetry of the decorative elements.

Beaded handbags, like the one here, were popular from the 1800s until the 1920s.