The earliest fashion galleries often featured elaborate and ornate clothing, characteristic of the opulence and excess of 18th and 19th century Europe. The aristocracy and upper class used fashion as a means of displaying their wealth and status, with intricately designed gowns, lavish accessories, and impeccable tailoring. These early fashion plates and illustrations showcased the artistry and craftsmanship of the time, highlighting the importance of fashion as a symbol of social standing.