This article was written by Linnea, exploring the fashion of 1907, the founding year of Downe House.

1907, the year Downe House was founded, also marked a turning point in women’s fashion. Society was moving away from the rigid, structured clothes of the Edwardian Era towards softer, freer-shaped attire that reflected a new, fluid expression of feminism.

At the start of the century, S-shaped corsets exaggerated the hourglass figure, but by 1907, designers like Paul Poiret were creating straighter, higher-waisted silhouettes that emphasized narrow waists, broad shoulders, and hips. Poiret’s designs focused on the drapery of fabrics rather than traditional tailoring, giving women more freedom of movement. One of his most notable creations was the “Josephine” evening dress — made from ivory silk satin with an empire silhouette, a large silk rose on the fitted bodice, and a loosely fitted black net shawl, reflecting a return to the Neo-classical styles of the early 1800s.

Day dresses of the era valued modesty and practicality. Long skirts and high-necked blouses were common, and the tailored shirtwaist blouse became a symbol of the modern working woman when paired with a walking skirt. Another significant trend was the tailored walking suit, which allowed women to embrace masculine tailoring for the first time.

Evening dresses remained lavish, with fitted bodices and low necklines made from rich fabrics such as silk satin and chiffon in soft tones like ivory, lilac, and pale blue. Accessories were equally extravagant, including large, ornate hats adorned with feathers, ribbons, and flowers, as well as gloves, parasols, and handbags for a refined appearance. Hairstyles were voluminous, often styled in the iconic Gibson girl look with face-framing tendrils and a soft bun or chignon at the back.

Fashion in 1907 was becoming more individualised and expressive, offering women the freedom to showcase their style and personality while maintaining elegance and sophistication.