The Timeless Allure of Vintage Fashion Illustration
, by Sarasvati Designs, 5 min reading time
At Sarasvati Designs, our passion for art and design has led us to curate a striking collection of vintage fashion illustrations—some meticulously repainted in vibrant color, others preserved in their original form to honor the vision of the era. This collection is a tribute to the elegance, theatricality, and artistic brilliance of early 20th-century fashion illustration.
Long before fashion photography became the dominant medium, illustrators shaped the way the world viewed style and glamour. These images weren’t just promotional tools—they were works of art in their own right, crafted by celebrated illustrators whose influence still lingers in fashion and design today.
Umberto Brunelleschi
An Italian illustrator known for his theatrical flair and intricate costume designs, Brunelleschi brought a touch of opulence to every figure he illustrated. His work evokes the luxurious textures and dazzling colors of haute couture in the Belle Époque and Art Deco eras.
Bring the elegance of early 20th-century Paris into your everyday life with our A Timeless Journey by Umberto Brunelleschi Weekender Bag. Featuring original artwork from Brunelleschi’s 1923 series Librairie de l'Amateur, this bag is both a functional accessory and a celebration of vintage French illustration. The original series includes 12 enchanting fashion plates published in Paris by Grands Magasins Dufayel. Perfect for art lovers and stylish travelers alike.
View the bag here:
https://sarasvati.design/products/a-timeless-journey-by-umberto-brunelleschi-weekender-bag
George Barbier
One of the most iconic figures in Art Deco fashion illustration, Barbier’s work is instantly recognizable for its elegance, stylization, and social sophistication. He portrayed glamorous women in lush settings, often inspired by mythology, opera, and high society.
Featured Product
Capture the charm and sentimentality of Art Deco elegance with our Au Revoir by George Barbier Note Cube. This beautifully designed cube features Barbier’s evocative illustration “Au Revoir,” which portrays a graceful woman bidding farewell to a gentleman. The nostalgic tone and refined detail of the scene embody the romanticism and style of a bygone era—perfect for those who appreciate timeless beauty in everyday objects.
View the note cube here:
https://sarasvati.design/products/au-revoir-by-george-barbier-note-cube
Fernand Siméon
Siméon brought a playful and imaginative tone to his fashion illustrations. His designs often leaned into a more whimsical or lighthearted world, offering a softer and more humorous take on the trends of his time.
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Add a touch of theatrical elegance to your space with The Maestro’s Performance by Fernand Siméon Ceramic Tile. This design features Siméon’s captivating 1920 artwork O Maître el Relicario; Robe de dîners garnie de ruban, a stunning fusion of fashion, poise, and mystique. Ideal as a decorative accent or collectible, the tile brings early 20th-century charm into the modern home.
View the ceramic tile here:
https://sarasvati.design/products/o-maitre-el-relicario-fernand-simeon-ceramic-tile
Charles Martin
With his elongated forms and graceful linework, Charles Martin exemplified early 20th-century French chic. His figures often exude motion and emotion, giving life to the garments they wear. His illustrations are both minimalist and richly expressive.
Elevate your barware with timeless sophistication using the Costume de Yacht by George Barbier Whiskey Glass. Featuring Barbier’s 1914 illustration from the Journal des Dames et des Modes, this design showcases a luxurious yachting ensemble that reflects the elegance and leisure of the Belle Époque. A perfect blend of function and artistry for collectors and connoisseurs alike.
View the whiskey glass here:
https://sarasvati.design/products/costume-de-yacht-by-george-barbier-whiskey-glass
Georges Lepape
Lepape’s stylized and often dreamlike compositions made him a standout contributor to publications like Vogue and Gazette du Bon Ton. He infused his work with rhythm and flow, blending fashion and fantasy in an unmistakably modernist way.
Featured Product
Bring the refined ambiance of vintage Parisian interiors to your space with the Les Coussins by Georges Lepape Light Cube Lamp. This design showcases Lepape’s enchanting illustration of a stylish woman reclining among richly patterned cushions—an ode to early 20th-century luxury and elegance. The soft glow of the lamp enhances the artwork’s romantic mood, making it a perfect statement piece for any room.
View the light cube lamp here:
https://sarasvati.design/products/les-coussins-by-georges-lepape-light-cube-lamp
Léon Bakst
Best known for his stage and costume designs for the Ballets Russes, Bakst’s fashion illustrations are rich with exotic motifs, opulent patterns, and bold color palettes. His theatrical background made every garment feel like part of a grand performance.
Featured Product
Celebrate the golden age of ballet and theatrical design with The Butterfly (Costume Design for Anna Pavlova) by Leon Bakst Ceramic Shot Glass. Featuring Bakst’s 1913 creation for the legendary ballerina Anna Pavlova, this piece captures the ethereal elegance and intricate detail of early 20th-century costume design. A tribute to Bakst’s visionary artistry, it’s a unique addition to any art lover’s collection.
View the ceramic shot glass here:
https://sarasvati.design/products/the-butterfly-costume-design-for-anna-pavlova-by-leon-bakst-ceramic-shot-glass
Honoring the Past, Curating the Present
At Sarasvati Designs, we honor these legendary artists by showcasing their original works alongside select pieces reimagined in fresh, vibrant palettes. Whether classic or repainted, each piece offers a glimpse into a golden age of illustration—capturing the imagination, elegance, and expressive detail that continue to inspire generations of art and fashion lovers.
