Smithsonian Magazine · People & society

Dolls as Muses: Tiny Trendsetters Influence Fashion

An exhibition explores the connection between dolls and fashion, showcasing how miniature figures have inspired designers and shaped trends for centuries.

"Doll Dressing" features over 170 objects, including miniature outfits by designers and ensembles inspired by doll clothing. It highlights "fashion dolls" whose clothes are changeable.

Fashion dolls originated in the 16th century when royals exchanged models to share trends. A 1770s doll in the show wears a gown styled in the "robe à la polonaise" fashion.

By the 18th century, paper dolls offered an alternative. 19th-century porcelain fashion dolls taught wealthy girls about fashion and consumerism.

In the early 20th century, baby dolls sported designer clothing. The Roaring Twenties saw boudoir dolls, which served as accessories for adults.

Boudoir dolls reflected the 1920s spirit. Later, 1960s "dolly birds" adopted doll-like aesthetics.

The exhibition examines designers' fascination with small-scale creations, from early fashion dolls to artisan dolls. It includes "creepy" dolls and unsettling designs.

Curator Colleen Hill suggests "doll dressing" fosters playfulness and imagination. The exhibition runs until January 3, 2027.

AI-samenvatting op basis van de bron.