3 Tips for Researching a New Fashion Era

3 Tips for New Research

Hello my friends!!

I’m back from the adventure of moving 700 miles to a new home. I’m now in Utah about a half hour south of Salt Lake City. If you are in the area and know of dress-up or reenacting events please let me know. I want to join the fun and meet you in person! πŸ™‚

A quick post today for those who want to try a new time period and don’t know where to start researching. Welcome to my (still unpacked) sewing room for three tips on how to go about delving into a new era. Watch the video below:

 

Any other tips you might add when you very first start researching a new decade for sewing?

21 thoughts on “3 Tips for Researching a New Fashion Era

  1. Karen says:

    Congratulations on your move. I hope you are enjoying your new home and neighborhood as you unpack and settle in. Thanks for the video. I will add to your tip – use your public library. It is a great way of getting resources and really looking at things in detail. Not to poo-poo the internet but sometimes I find really great information in books so I can go to my friends who are super experienced at creating period outfits with my questions. Another bonus of using the library is you get to know the librarians who can give you heads up about new books. Because of your blog I am working on my first set of stays – 18th century stays. I am going really slow with the mock up because I want to get it right. Keep up the good work.

  2. Susan says:

    One suggestion I have is when researching a new fashion era, concentrate more on images of extant garments (actual clothing that has been preserved and survived) and not as much on fashion plates.

    When I started, the appeal of fashion plates was strong and the images were easy to find. What I didn’t realize is that the “cutting edge” fashion shown in those pages didn’t necessarily reflect what was seen in everyday life. It’s the difference between what’s on the runway in Paris or Milan versus what is worn by the bulk of the population. Sure they’re fun and great for inspiration, but when first starting I think one learns more (and best) by sticking with the basics of fashion as it was really worn and building from there.

    I’ve made the mistake of starting a new era by trying to replicate something fancy or exotic, only to fail in so many ways and end up frustrated. Now I try to avoid repeating that mistake as best I can. My pearl of wisdom to offer: Be nice to yourself and start with something that will not only succeed but also bolster your enthusiasm for your “new” era. πŸ™‚

  3. Rajani says:

    Jennifer! Let’s meet! I’m about a half hour north of Salt Lake City, but down in that area all time time and would love to converse with someone else who loves historical sewing as much as I do. I sent you an email with contact info. Feel free anytime. πŸ™‚

  4. Libby says:

    This is a little of the track but could you do some info on mens clothing. I have made some companion clothes for my guy but am not as comfortable with tailoring . This would also be helpful for later Victorian jackets as well. I love all your teaching it has been a big help.

  5. Noelle says:

    I CANNOT believe this! I’ve been silently stalking *ahem* admiring you and your work from afar for years…….and JUST as I am moving from SLC, here you are!

    I am on my phone and am having trouble forwarding links, but I know plenty of costumey people and event to throw in your direction!

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