Bits of conversation around the famous room.
Where the upper class Parisians could pretend to go slumming.
Woman: "You are the only man who has never bored me."
Man: "I am the only man who has never loved you."
Men drank Absinthe in small corners to forget.
Women wore outfits, like these, to help them remember.
Black Ribbon Bodice Blouse (No. 2474). A silk and cotton knockout, that doesn't as much scream sex, but says it in a nice soft voice. Which, of course, is even sexier. Laces up in the back. Sounds imposing but it's easy to slip in and out of. Has a self-covered hook and eye closure. Ribbon passamenterie detail working for you at the neckline. Very French. In this case, Absinthe does make the heart grow fonder.
Color: Black.
Women's sizes: 2 through 16. Imported.
Vintage Flounce Skirt (No. 2608). Cut in silk georgette, fully lined in acetate. Which gives it a nice body. Designed to pull on easily, in case you want to arrive fashionably late, but not ridiculously so. Waist is elasticized and quite comfortable I'm told. Those nine rows of flounces are cut on a bias to give it flow and drape.
Get used to being in the spotlight. Mid-calf length.
Color: Black.
Women's sizes: 2 through 16. Imported.