The Story
Synopsis of A DRESS OF VIOLET TAFFETA from the publisher:
A DRESS OF VIOLET TAFFETA by Tessa Arlen
Lucy Duff Gordon knows she is talented. She sees color, light, fabric, and texture in ways few other people do. But is the world ready for her? A world dominated by men who would try to control her and use her art for their own gain?
After being deserted by her wealthy husband, Lucy is desperate to survive. She turns to her one true talent to make a living. As a little girl, the dresses she made for her dolls were the envy of her group of playmates.
Now, she uses her courageous innovations in Belle Époque fashion to support her own little girl. Lucile knows it is an uphill battle, and a single woman is not supposed to succeed on her own, but she refuses to give up. She will claim her place in the fashion world; failure simply is not an option.
Book Review: A Dress of Violet Taffeta
A historical fiction about a woman whose wealthy and abusive husband leaves her destitute, Lucy Wallace must find a way to survive in a world created and run by men. She does the unthinkable, files for a divorce and finds work as a tradesperson.
We see across the first half of the novel a woman coming into her own. Finding her footing, trying her best to stay afloat as she begins her trade as a fashion designer. I love how Arlen blends together the emotions the main character faces while she creates these beautiful gowns. Giving them names that match her creation. Dressmaking, like other art forms, is a craft where the artist expresses a feeling. And in this case it is in layers of fabric. Splashing in colors, bold and bright, to define women on their own terms and in their own bodies. Slowly chiseling away at the patriarchy one garment at a time.
An interesting story set in the gilded age, A DRESS OF VIOLET TAFFETA gives voice to an acclaimed designer who was determined in making a name and legend for herself.
Happy Reading ~ Cece
RATING: 
– Satisfyingly Inked
Publication Details
| Pub Date | ISBN | Page Count | Publisher | Age Group | Source & Format | Review Posted Online |
| 5-Jul-22 | 978-0593436851 | 352 | Berkley | Adult | NetGalley, Digital ARC | June 17, 2022 |
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Welcome Reader!
I’m Cecelia and I’m so glad you’re here! You’ll find honest reviews, book recommendations, along with other bookish essentials. So happy you stopped by!
– C
