Gibson Girl Paper Dolls

During the first quarter of this century, the pen-and-ink illustrations of Charles Daba Gibson (1867‒1944) set the tone for illustrators everywhere, and their intrinsic charm continues to captivate. A brilliant social satirist and later an accomplished painter, he put his indelible stamp on an era with his lovely creation, the Gibson Girl. With unusual deftness, directness and economy of line, Gibson, barely in his 20s, idealized the glamor and sophistication of the American woman in masterly pen-and-ink drawings. The appeal of his beautiful, animated young ladies was instantaneous — and universal — and the Gibson Girl's manner, hairstyles and dress were eagerly imitated by women around the world. At home, his illustrations of the Gibson Girl swimming, golfing, boating, seemed to give impetus to the liberation of the American woman. For this lavish volume, artist Tom Tierney has painstakingly recreated the Gibson Girl as a paper doll, in full color, while retaining the essence of the originator's virtuosic pen strokes. This charming collection includes two Gibson Girl paper dolls with 24 exquisite period costumes and complete accessories: a stately presentation gown worn at the English court, and a bridal gown; tennis, golf, and bathing costumes; walking dresses and travel outfits; proper attire for theater and a day at the races; lacy night wear; elegant beaux-arts ball gowns, dinner gowns, theater gowns … and more. In addition, you'll find five male dolls attired in fashionable city clothing and country wear — even a bridegroom's outfit. A total of 31 full-color illustrations accurately capture the look and spirit of the Gibson Girl era and provide a glimpse of the pastimes enjoyed by stylish, active woman. Antique and paper doll collectors, artists, costume historians, anyone interested in fashion design will welcome this splendid tribute to one of America's best-known illustrators and his unforgettable creation, the Gibson Girls.