Modern dress

Evening standard and St. James’s gazette, London, 23 July 1913.
Selfridge & Co., Ltd. (editorial rooms)
Oxford Street, London, W.
Modern dress
(We publish the letter below from an unnamed correspondent. It fully corresponds to our own opinion.
London,
21 July 1913.
Dear Sirs,
It is interesting that the topic of the women’s dress has appeared on the front pages only recently. There is no doubt that there is the psychology of clothes, and everyone who gets to understand it can characterize men and women of the past by studying fashion illustrations dating from that time. I have recently seen in an illustrated publication a few sketches by Mister Léon Bakst, who provided his forecast of what the women’s dress would look like in 1925. The artist concludes that “sportiness” will become a characteristic feature of women in the 20th century.
Bakst’s sketches look a bit extravagant, but incredibly exciting at the same time. Short light skirts that lend absolute freedom to legs, as I noted with sheer happiness, are the main feature. As a result, we can observe shoes and stockings, which shocks some and makes us think about more important things. In my case, about the taste for cuts that differs in women of various nationalities. After many years in Paris, I returned to London this season and was immediately filled with admiration for the progress that my fellow countrywomen made with respect to dresses.
I had always thought that a Parisian woman is second to none in her choice of elegant details. Now I find today’s Englishwoman just as exquisite. Moreover, my admiration for her is limitless. She has achieved a style in clothing that is hygienic; however, with hygiene and freedom of movement she combines a charming elegance, refined chic, and neatness. All of my Parisian acquaintances tend to agree with me. “English ladies have seen a true transformation,” one of them has told me recently.
I send these contemplations of a prodigal Englishwoman hoping that they can interest you and, possibly, your readers.
Trust me,
Sincerely Yours,
G.F. de C.
Selfridge & Co., Ltd.