When I was a wee one, making clothes for my Trolls out of fabric scraps, I doubt I knew what ‘historical fashion’ was. But we’re a ways away from those days now, and, boy, do I love me some historical fashion! I got into costume design in college, wrote my senior art history paper on Schiaparelli’s fashion as surrealist object, and even thought about making “Historical Fashion” my middle name.

So, when I saw the wealth of historical influence in Temperley London’s Fall 2011 show, I was bowled over like a pins in a lane-cracking strike. Temperley London managed to cram pretty much every decade of the first half of the 20th century into their show, and below are a few of my faves!

Images via Style.com and Vintage Wedding.

1910s The first time I saw a white work gown, it was starry-eyed love at first site. This runway piece echoes the white work dresses of early 20th quite perfectly, from the full length and long sleeves, to the delicate floral embroidery and salt white hue.

Images via Style.com and Milk Teeth.

1920s This is one you’re probably familiar with—1920s flapper style. Dropped hem, fringe-swept skirt, silvery, beaded silhouette? If you didn’t have the photos above, you’d probably have a hard time figuring out if I was talking about this Temperley piece or the real deal.

Images via Style.com and Flickr user Gatochy.

1930s Are you as impressed as I am as to how the Temperley dress above captures the glamorous feel of ’30s eveningwear? Must have something to do with the bias cut and luxurious satin fabric, two things that are practically prerequisites for  ’30s-era gowns.

Images via Style.com and Adclassix.

1940s Picture a well-dressed lady circa 1943. What would she be wearing? A high-waisted pencil skirt with a billowy, tucked in blouse, perhaps? Oh funny, that’s exactly what this model is wearing! And, if you look closely, you’ll see nude fishnets beneath the svelte, retro silhouette of the shirt and skirt.

Which decade or piece do you like best?