The Art Nouveau movement featured so prominently in the Paris 1900 Exhibit was expressed in the smallest details of daily life.  I saw several beautiful examples of decorative combs to be worn in women’s hair.

Natural forms were everywhere, but developed into the most sophisticated designs.

One of these combs would be just the thing to anchor an artistically tousled chignon.

My favorite item, though, was a short fitted jacket in linen and cotton. It was made special with elaborate assymmetrical embroidery and all manner of fine needlework details. In 1900, women had all kinds of new freedoms.  I can see a fashionable woman grabbing this jacket and tossing it on over a simple skirt, on her way out the door with plans to cross Paris on the newly-opened Metro subway. I’d have cheerfully taken this jacket home right out of the display case.  I think it would look great with jeans.

Join me next time for more explorations in the art and history of Europe!