Presented by RMS Titanic, Inc.

When it comes to luxury, some moments in history stand out more than others. The RMS Titanic in 1912 was one of those extraordinary times. As passengers boarded the "unsinkable" ship, they weren't just bringing their luggage—they were showcasing the height of opulence. Think about it: voluminous hairstyles, adorned hats, bold patterns, soft silks, and dazzling jewels. These weren’t just clothes or accessories; they were statements. The Grand Staircase wasn’t just a staircase—it was a runway, a place where the world's most glamorous figures strutted their stuff. And guess what? Brands like Louis Vuitton, Tiffany, Macy’s, and others owe much of their legacy to the influence of this era.

The Titanic Runway Show: Style Icons Who Left a Mark

The Age of Opulence: Dorothy Gibson

Just one month after the Titanic tragedy, silent film starlet Dorothy Gibson starred in a movie titled Saved from the Titanic. This wasn’t just any film—it was personal. Dorothy recreated her harrowing experience, wearing the exact outfit she had on that fateful night: a simple yet iconic dress, sweater, and coat. It was her way of telling her story and connecting with the world in the most raw and honest manner possible.

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Charlotte Wardle Cardeza: The Queen of Extravagance

If there was ever a person who embodied the concept of luxury, it was Charlotte Wardle Cardeza. She didn’t just travel lightly—Charlotte brought 14 trunks with her on the Titanic. And these weren’t ordinary trunks; many were crafted by Louis Vuitton and filled with the finest things money could buy. Inside those trunks? Tiffany jewelry, elegant fashions from Lord & Taylor and Saks & Co., and countless other treasures. Her story is a reminder of how the wealthy lived during this time—a life of indulgence and refinement.

Isidor and Ida Straus: A Love Story That Defied Tragedy

First-class passengers Isidor and Ida Straus were more than just co-owners of Macy’s department store—they were a couple whose love transcended even the darkest moments. As the ship began to sink, Ida refused to leave her husband's side, despite being offered a spot in a lifeboat. Holding hands, they faced their fate together. Their story is immortalized in a plaque inside Macy’s flagship store in New York City, a testament to their enduring love.

Lucy, Lady Duff-Gordon: The Fashion Trailblazer

Lucy, Lady Duff-Gordon, wasn’t just a passenger on the Titanic—she was a pioneer in the world of fashion. Her business, Maison Lucile, opened in London in 1894, and later expanded with Lucile Ltd. in 1910. She was known for her daring yet sophisticated designs, including lingerie and dresses that pushed the boundaries of Edwardian fashion. Alongside her husband, Sir Cosmo Duff-Gordon, she survived the disaster, carrying with her the legacy of a woman who changed the fashion industry forever.

Blue Sapphire & Diamonds: A Treasure Recovered

Among the artifacts recovered from the Titanic is a stunning piece of jewelry—an 18k gold and platinum natural blue sapphire and diamond ring. Featuring pear-shaped petals, this ring was brought back to the surface by RMS Titanic, Inc. in 1987. It’s not just a piece of jewelry; it’s a symbol of the wealth and elegance that defined the Titanic’s passengers.

Gold & Finials: A Glimpse into Personal Wealth

Another remarkable artifact recovered in 2000 is an 18k yellow gold handmade coin purse. Its intricate design features an Egyptian motif, complete with lotus pyramid finials and a mummy head clasp. This piece tells a story of personal wealth and artistic craftsmanship, offering a glimpse into the luxurious lives of those aboard the Titanic.

Ready to dive deeper into the elegance and history of the Titanic? Visit discovertitanic.com or experience the magic firsthand at the TITANIC: The Artifact Exhibition in Las Vegas or Orlando.