The early 1900's marked the rise of Haute Couture movement in Paris. Women of the upper classes coveted their designs, which set the tone for the rest of the Western fashion world. These designs debuted at horse races, and Vogue took on the role of informing the public about what was going on, who was going where, and what was being worn. Corsets and long, full skirts enhanced unnatural curves, and hats grew out of control. As World War I began, attention was drawn away from fashion. British Vogue launched in 1916, but the economic consequences of war were making androgynous dressing more popular. By the time World War I ended, women were used to their freedom and independence, and their clothing maintained its wartime masculinity with loose, shapeless fits and flattened busts. Corsets became a thing of the past.