Dispelling the Myth of the Itsy Bitsy Teeny Weeny Waist

It’s true when you look at photographs from the 1800s or observe antique dresses on custom-made mannequins it’s not hard to envy those petite waistlines. Do you do this? This perception usually leads to the generic thought: “Teeny, tiny waists are what women strived for back then. Everyone wanted an 18″ waist!” But did they?… Read More...

7 Modern Tools for Every Historical Sewing Room

Consider your sewing area for a moment. What tools or supplies do you use the most? Are some of them unique or specialized? Generic? Perhaps you create with a few of the most basic tools. Since I’ve been sewing for over 30 years, I occasionally get asked what sewing implements are required for my work. Read More...

The 1913 Blue Floral Corset

My latest historical costuming project – the first completed in 2016 – is a long-line, late Edwardian corset. Yay for period correct undergarments for a good start to the proper silhouette!! I also made a c.1917 chemise. Here’s my review and how it went together. Read More...

How Long Do Reproduction Undergarments Last?

  While fitting my latest mockup (an 1838 single dart bodice with back closing), I realized I was choosing to wear my rather old corset made in 2002. This isn’t a bad thing as I love this particular corset – it gives a great shape and is fitted relatively well. My beloved cream cotton brocade Read More...

Are You Wearing Your Chemise Wrong?

Are you? Is that even a question to discuss? Apparently it is. Who’s to say I’m wearing my underwear wrong? Or even if I’m wearing it right? This is such a personal question even for modern conversations, but how does it apply to those of us who make and dress in underwear from another time? Read More...