The hats and equestrian-themed outfits in John Galliano's summer 2013 collection for Dior are said to have been similarly influenced. High-street and internet retailers haven't been slow to react.

One of L.A.'s great eccentric clothiers, Clockwork Couture is where serious steampunks source their parasols, gloves, frilly hats, goggles, gowns, long coats, leather ...

Steampunk conjures up images of 19th-century top hats, corsets, petticoats, ... Millicent Philomena Ambrose Wheelwright (middle) says women in steampunk are protagonists and adventurers.