Step back in time with us and explore how people dressed in the early 1900s. This era, known as the Edwardian period or the Art Nouveau era, was marked by elegance, change, and eventually, practicality—especially as the world was shaken by World War I.
The Edwardian Era and Art Nouveau Style
The 1900s and 1910s are often called the Edwardian era, named after Britain’s King Edward VII, or the Art Nouveau period, influenced by French culture. Fashion during this time started to move away from the strict styles of the Victorian era. World War I (1914–1918) played a big role in this shift, as it changed everyday life—and clothing—with it.
Browse our Edwardian shoe collection featuring styles from the 1900s to the 1920s.
Photo: A classic Edwardian look with a fitted waist, long skirt, and parasol, from our historical fashion show. On her feet is our Victoria boots in black, a classic Edwardian boot. Photo by Tami Meijburg.
From S-Shaped Corsets to Relaxed Empire Waists
In the early 1900s, women’s roles in society began to shift—they were getting more education, fighting for the right to vote, and working in traditionally male jobs, especially during the war. These changes influenced fashion, making women’s clothing more practical and less restrictive.
At the start of the century, the ideal body shape was the "S-curve," created by corsets that pushed the chest forward and cinched the waist. But by the 1910s, that silhouette started fading. Dresses became looser with empire waists (high waistlines just below the bust) and flowing skirts. Skirt lengths began to rise, making it easier for women to move around. Hats were still large and decorative, and accessories like gloves, parasols, and jewelry remained essential.
Working-Class Women’s Clothing in the 1900s
For working-class women, practicality came first. Clothes had to withstand long days of physical work, whether in factories or on farms. Dresses were made of sturdy cotton or wool, with high collars and long sleeves. Skirts were long but sometimes shorter for practicality. Aprons were worn over clothes to protect them, and footwear was simple and durable. Headscarves or plain hats were worn for everyday use.
Upper-Class Women’s Fashion
Women from wealthier families followed the fashionable "S" silhouette with tightly corseted waists and wide skirts. Outfits were made from fine fabrics like silk, satin, and lace. High-neck blouses and long sleeves were standard, in keeping with modesty norms. Evening gowns were elegant and richly decorated, often with beads or embroidery. Accessories included oversized hats, gloves, pearls, and diamond jewelry.
A looser silhouette from the late 1910s/early 1920s—simple, practical, and stylish. Photo by Tami Meijburg.
Shoes of the 1900s – From French Heels to Mary Janes
Women’s footwear in the Edwardian era was mostly made of leather. French heels (a curved, elegant heel) were very popular. Lower, block-style heels were common for everyday wear. Lace-up or button boots were standard, and by the late 1910s, shoes like Mary Janes and Oxfords became popular due to their comfort and ease.
Our Ruth boots are a perfect example—lace-up Edwardian style with a practical low heel.
Men’s Fashion in the 1900s
While men's fashion didn’t change as dramatically as women’s, World War I still influenced it. Most men wore three-piece suits with a jacket, vest, and trousers. These suits had a slim cut, with high-waisted pants that tapered at the ankles. As the war progressed, military styles started to influence everyday fashion—think structured jackets, belts, trench coats, and muted colors like khaki.
Working-Class Men’s Clothing
Men in labor-intensive jobs wore durable clothes like trousers, overalls, and simple shirts. Footwear was sturdy—heavy leather boots for protection and support. Flat caps were commonly worn for both work and casual wear. In cold weather, wool coats and tweed jackets were essential.
Working-class shirts often had removable collars and cuffs. These could be washed separately, which saved time and extended the life of the shirt. Shirts were usually striped (white with blue, green, or brown lines) to better hide stains and reduce how often they needed washing.
Upper-Class Men’s Style
Wealthy men dressed in formal suits, often including a frock coat, waistcoat, and trousers. For daytime events, a morning coat was worn, and for evening occasions, a tailcoat. These were usually paired with top hats, bow ties or cravats, and polished leather shoes. A crisp white shirt was a sign of status—showing you could afford frequent laundry or new shirts. Accessories like pocket watches and cufflinks were also popular.
American fashion plate of upper class menswear from 1896. Notice the slim, long silhouette of the shoes. Source: Metropolitan Museum of Art
Edwardian Men’s Shoes
Mens shoes and boots in the Edwardian era reflected the sleek tailoring of men’s suits. They were usually leather with pointed toes, secured with laces or buttons. Boots were especially popular among the working class, made from durable black or brown leather.
Our William shoe is inspired by these classic Edwardian men’s styles—sharp, leather, and lace-up.
Interested in more fashion history? Discover what happened next after the Edwardian era in our article on 1920s fashion, featuring flapper dresses and the iconic Gatsby-era style: 1920’s fashion - Learn about the fashion in the roaring 20’s
Or you can go on a history deep dive into the iconic Oxford shoe in our article Oxford and Derby shoes: An Everlasting Classic
Sources:
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Shoes – An Illustrated History by Rebecca Shawcross
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Tidens Mode by Anne-Grete Steckhahn
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Vintage Fashion by Emma Baxter-Wright, Karen Clarkson, Sarah Kennedy, and Kate Mulvey