Some of the most interesting things about fashion have been purely by accident. This illustration is from a French novel originally written in 1882 by Albert Robida in  which the 20th Century is envisioned (for an English translation, click HERE).

Fashions in 1952 as envisioned from 1883. From Albert Robida, Le vingtième siècle: La vie électrique

Of course, this says more about the era in which this book was written than 1952 and in many ways, its reminiscent of outfits worn by entertainers of the 1880s and the key element seems to be shorter skirts. It’s a striking illustration and we only wish that we knew more about it. Enjoy!