Chronicles of Mini Couture

"For over a century, dolls have been utilized as tools for early training and apprenticeship in the rituals of fashion consumption and observation." Juliette Peers, The Fashion Doll: From Bébé Jumeau to Barbie (2004)

The fashion doll, or petit mannequin, has been recognized as one of the earliest mediums for disseminating fashion, though its significance within the fashion world has often been overlooked. Over time, its role and meaning have been transformed irreversibly, yet it continues to serve as a reflection of contemporary trends and styles. 

About a decade ago, Janusauskas began to explore the cultural context and historical role of fashion dolls, drawing on critical literature by Theriault, F. (2001); Boehn, von M. (1924); Coleman, D. E. E. (1968); and Desmonde, K. (1949). This work was supplemented by studies of antique and modern dolls in museums and private collections.

As a fashion practitioner and academic, I have (Janusauskas has) acquired expertise in contemporary trends, historical costumes, and the evaluation of authenticity in fashion dolls. While the existing literature produced by collectors or independent enthusiasts has often focused on historical records or American kitsch, a creative approach that blends historical analysis with a contemporary perspective has been notably absent. Chronicles of Mini Couture was conceived to address this gap by presenting a unique book-album that examines fashion dolls through the lens of a professional, revealing their artistic and cultural significance in an innovative way. This project remains in progress, evolving with new insights and perspectives.