Editors’ Letter

The Legacy of the Belle Epoquè

To understand the present, we should remember the past. Artists, characters, designers had marked our present and made us what we are today. Without the first female suffragist movement that was developed during the Belle Epoquè, the women would not be able to vote today. Even though the roaring 20s are known as the period where the women were independent, during the 1880-1918 first steps were taken. For example, the idea of some women riding bikes, Marie Curie getting into science and the actress Sarah Bernhardt using trousers are just some of the first important signs that will impact later on the future. The fashion also started to change, it became more democratic with the new department stores, enormous architectures based on the opulence. Along with these fashion changes another way of art appeared, the art Nouveau. This was reflected in everything, clothing, interior design, architecture and lifestyle. It was very important for the society to show off, the opulence and the exotism of this art helped to embrace the power of the people. The organic fibers and patterns, such as fur, feather, exotic animals and flowers were part of the idea of this art. Jewelry as well as interior design were the principal things for the period. Another way for the upper class to show off were the big events such as the opera, horse races, house parties, etc. This magazine edition wants to honor and embrace some of the art, female characters, spirit and lifestyle of this period's society. This era not only brougth the opulance and exotism but also first steps to progress on future societies.