Georges Barbier (1882 – 1932) gave new meaning to flamboyance with his portrayal of extravagant theater costumes of glittering rhinestones, towering headdresses and vast trains. Originally an illustrator for several prominent Paris fashion magazines, he revolutionized these publications into tools that defined women’s clothing styles. The arrival of Art Nouveau provided fertile ground for Barbier’s opulent fashions, and he was soon designing lavish costumes for cabarets, theaters and movies. He created costumes for the famous Folies Bergères, in addition to the entire wardrobe for the movie “Monsieur Beaucaire,” starring Rudolph Valentino. Barbier’s resplendent work continues to influence Vegas floor shows, major designers and costumers worldwide.

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