Duplicating Antique Garments – Do you really want it THAT historically accurate?

It’s a most wonderful thing to study antique garments then create your own reproduction based on your research! Our ancestors were wise when it came to sewing up their clothing. But then again…. It was only their clothing. We modern day costumers look at antiques with such reverence. We want to know their secrets. How Read More...

Regency Gown Closures

The Regency Fashion Era (1795-1820) is a wonderful time of simple silhouettes, drape-able fabrics, and a freedom from tight dressing (as compared to the Rococo period before and Victorian Era after). With these delicate styles comes light closures – ones not to disturb the easy shaping. They are fairly simple. Basic really. Uncomplicated. And generally Read More...

Victorian Dressing Gowns & Tea Gowns: A Brief Overview

We all have our “comfy clothes” we wear around the house. For some that may be yoga pants and a t-shirt; for others, jeans and sweater or cotton dress. If friends come over for a Saturday BBQ we might put on something a bit nicer… like shoes. But in thinking about those who lived in Read More...

Sleeve Shifts of the 1890s

Fashion doesn’t change overnight. There’s a subtle movement when a new thought is presented. The idea is taken to the full extreme over a period of a few years. Then it seems to be discarded quickly; put on the shelf and forgotten. Another new idea is presented and we start the cycle again. This path Read More...

1873 Blackberry Cream Victorian Ensemble

It’s finished!! After over four years I finally have completed my first objective of the day bodice to this incredibly fun ensemble! As in true Victorian spirit, the initial plan was to make the day bodice first then add an evening bodice later. It is the accurate way to get more mileage out of those Read More...

Book Review: Regency Women’s Dress

This book, Regency Women’s Dress: Techniques and Patterns 1800-1830 by Cassidy Percoco, had been on my radar for a couple months after first stumbling upon it on Amazon last August. I waited for the release date of October 1st only to have it appear as “out of stock.” Sigh…. So when it was available again Read More...

1895 Nine-Gored Skirt from The Delineator No.7856

Straight from the pages of the September 1895 issue of The Delineator…. Pattern number 7856 a nine-gored skirt with matching bias seam edges. Oh, to be able to purchase this original pattern of the Late Victorian era! Here is the complete description of the pattern along with yardage requirements given in the magazine. I’ll also Read More...

The Autumn Dress Fabrics, The Delineator, October 1902

  THE AUTUMN DRESS FABRICS WITH ILLUSTRATIONS IN ACTUAL SIZE, OF NEW DESIGNS IN FANCY VELVETS, AND VELVET CORD This 2-page article was featured on pages 546 & 547 of the October 1902, The Delineator magazine. Just think! Our great grandmothers were pouring over these fabric & color hints to get the latest news of Read More...