Elegant 1914 Poiret Fashion Model at Gimbels NYC

This photograph captures a moment at Gimbels, one of New York City’s most famous department stores, in March 1914. At the center is a Poiret fashion model, showcasing the innovative designs of French designer Paul Poiret, who was known for revolutionizing women’s fashion. At a time when corsets were the norm, Poiret’s creations liberated women’s bodies through looser, unstructured silhouettes, paving the way for modern styles.

The image reflects the retail landscape of the early 20th century, highlighting how department stores like Gimbels served as crucial venues for fashion promotion. Models were employed not just for aesthetics but as crucial parts of marketing strategies, bringing the latest styles directly to the public. With clothing featured on live models, shoppers could see how the garments moved and fit, making the shopping experience more engaging and interactive. This practice was instrumental in shaping consumer culture, emphasizing the importance of presentation in retail and the emerging prominence of department stores in urban life.