Rococo, often referred to as the style of frivolity and the pursuit of pleasure, significantly influenced fashion by loosening its rigid rules. Thanks to the wealth of the French and the English, court ladies and their companions indulged in moments of relaxation amidst nature or in luxurious salons surrounded by exquisite furniture. This era of loosened societal norms and greater daily freedom led to the rise of less formal and more comfortable clothing, perfectly suited for the upper classes seeking greater ease.        In the 18th century, the popularity of hand-painted and printed Indian patterns surged dramatically. Despite bans on importing such textiles, they continued to arrive in large quantities. Ultimately, governments legalized their trade once again. Printed, vividly colored, and intricately designed cotton fabrics became a symbol of a new era, heralding major societal shifts, including those of the French Revolution.  ...