The Gibson Girl was the creation of American artist Charles Dana Gibson. He got his start with Time - Life books in the 1890's. By the 1920's he became the editor of the magazine.
His pen and ink drawings of these lovely maidens graced everything from magazine covers, such as Collier's & Harper's, to numerous household items.
The Gibson Girl represented the American beauty in the late 1800's and flourished right to WW1. She reached her peak in 1900. She was not only poised, elegant and feminine but at the same time spirited and independent.
A young beauty by the name of Evelyn Nesbit was highly sought after by artists of the day. Charles Dana Gibson chose Evelyn as his first Gibson Girl model. The illustration was entited The Eternal Question.
The Gibson Girl appeared business like in her starched shirtwaist and collar. Yet she was lovely as well in her long skirt with flowing hair piled high on top of her head. A boater hat often perched on her head, wearing a bolero style short jacket over a lace shirtwaist, and a bell shaped skirt. She was the epitome of feminine beauty.
She was the ideal that nearly every woman of the era tried to emulate, and every gentleman hoped to marry.The Gibson Girl was the first international super fashion model. Before Charles Dana Gibson's portrayal, the American woman was rather vague. Charles found his true Gibson Girl love in Virginia born Irene Langhorne. They married in 1895. Sister Nancy Astor became the first woman to sit in Parliament. The Gibson Girl was illustrated in many walks of life. First as society beauty, sweet demure housewife, and then independent working woman.Amazingly his drawings helped shape the future of the American woman's freedom.
On a bicycle, playing sports, portrayed in daring bathing suits and ultimately behind the wheel of an automobile.Could Charles and Irene Gibson have ever imagined the impact they would have on the future of women? The work of Charles Dana Gibson was and is still loved by many who appreciate the beauty of the Victorian era.
Evelyn Nesbit, The Eternal Question
Lisa In Gibson Girl Ensemble circa 1900
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Contact Lisa Lewis at (570) 655-8392 P. O. Box 3278 West Pittston PA 18643 E-mail: Lisa @victorianalady.com
Victoriana Lady has been honored to receive donations from individuals who would like their loved ones antique garments preserved and their history shared. Any item, in any condition before 1930 will be cherished and given due acknowledgement in my traveling museum programs.
Please contact me if you are interested in being a part of history
Sincere thanks, Victoriana Lady Lisa E-mail: Lisa@Victorianalady.com
