When I first started sewing historical skirts (mainly bustle costumes) I didn’t think of just how many layers go around the waist. I knew I had my bustle plus a petticoat or two, then the skirt and overskirt. Of course I would be wearing all of those…. But I forgot to calculate that all those Read More...
Tag: Bustle Era
Observations from a Steampunk Con Newbie
This past weekend I attending the Inagural Voyage of Z.R.A. Gaslight (aka Gaslight Gathering) in beautiful San Diego, California. It was inspiring and insightful. And FUN! I taught my Victorian Corset Tips & Tricks class which was well-attended. Then sat on panels for both What Women Wore When and Where: Styles During the Victorian Period Read More...
Quick Study of an 1880 Natural Form Gown
This beautiful silver blue silk taffeta gown was on display at the Fashioning Fashion exhibit at LACMA. It caught my eye, not just because it’s the Victorian style that I love, but the details are fabulous! Read More...
The Drool Fest
What better way to enjoy historical fashion than to look at the real thing! I had the grateful opportunity to visit the Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA) over the weekend. Through rain, fog, bright sunshine and a blowing snow storm (complete with police escort!) my husband and I got to gasp, drool and Read More...
Finding a Perfect Victorian Fabric
When you’re duplicating a historical garment, how do you find the perfect fabric from today’s available textiles? When do you deviate from the dream in your head to what is available on the market? How do you compromise with your costume vision and your budget? Read More...
Stuck Between Civil War & Bustle
This newly acquired fashion plate from 1869 really struck a chord with me. Probably the blue and stripes thing. Not to mention that both evening gowns are made of gorgeous silk taffeta or satin. What are your thoughts on this transitional fashion plate? The white skirt can be made from a good cotton base with Read More...
Oh, For Pretty Purple Bustle Gowns!
In preparation of my probable attendance at the Gaslight Gathering in San Diego in May 2011, I’ve been casually searching for late Victorian designs and silhouettes to replicate. There’s no better time than to fall into a pile of gorgeous purple silk and come up with this… Read More...
1884 Feb Delineator Jackets
Taken from The Delienator magazine, the bodice/jacket in the top right has 25 buttons and the lower left jacket has 17 plus 12 on the vest. They sure loved their button closures! For a successful reproduction, look for a 3/8″ size. You could also get away with 1/2″ and *maybe* 5/8″. Read More...