An exhibition titled "Worth: Inventing Haute Couture" is currently running at the Petit Palais art museum in Paris until September 7. This retrospective, a collaboration with the Palais Galliera, marks the first time the House of Worth has been showcased in France in over 60 years. The exhibition also coincides with the 200th birthday of Charles Frederick Worth.
The exhibition showcases the house's work from its inception to the 1920s. Garments worn by actresses and singers like Sarah Bernhardt are featured. Also on display are art and design items that belonged to the Worth family, including items by Jean Dunand and Man Ray.
Fragrance is incorporated into the exhibition, allowing visitors to experience a recreation of "Je Reviens," a Worth scent. Original Worth perfume bottles designed by René Lalique are also on display. Charles Frederick Worth, widely regarded as the "father of haute couture," established his fashion house in 1858.
Worth revolutionized the fashion industry by designing looks for customers to buy. He founded the Chambre Syndicale de la Haute Couture in 1868 to protect French couture designs. Worth also established practices like using live models and runway shows.
Worth's clientele included Empress Eugénie and American high society families. The exhibition features dresses belonging to Countess Élisabeth Greffulhe, who inspired a character in Marcel Proust's work. Worth's impact is also recognized in literature, with Émile Zola basing a character on him in "La Curée."