I think linen is lovely even though I don’t use it much. I’ve had to almost force myself to sew with it. But why? My very first truly historical costume (not counting that blue velvet Italian Renaissance gown or any other Halloween stuff) was an 1880 polonaise courtesy of Past Patterns. You know the pattern. Read More...
Tag: Undergarments
The Amazing Look of a Corded Petticoat
I think a lot of costumers, especially newbies and those that haven’t sewn from the Romantic Era, start out by thinking the best way to achieve the skirt silhouette is to begin with a hoop skirt. That couldn’t be farther from the authentic truth as the metal cage crinoline/hoopskirt we know of wasn’t invented until Read More...
Costume College 2011 Report
What a great weekend! Seriously! Some Costume Colleges go by as ‘blah.’ This one, although it flew by, was a terrific event! It was a blast to meet up with old friends and meet new ones – including many of you who follow me here and on Facebook. Thanks for introducing yourselves to me! I Read More...
What Everyone Ought to Know About Wearing a Victorian Corset
I first experienced wearing a corset eleven years ago. I thought it was the coolest thing ever as I LOVED Victorian clothes. So much wisdom has been gained over the years of making and wearing that “body armor” that I gladly pass on my experience to you to keep you on your feet and moving. Read More...
Edwardian Maternity Clothes
Ways to alter your c. 1907 skirts and shirtwaists to allow for your expanding figure…. This article from the Ladies Home Journal also talks about underwear (drawers, corset cover and petticoats) that should also be adjusted with great care. These alterations might work well for those who fluctuate in weight. Have you made adjustments on your historical costumes to Read More...
February Wedding Gown Inspiration
I love the Valentine pink satin used for the bridesmaid dress in this 1909 plate from Journal des Demoiselles. The deep fringe on the sash and her HUGE hat with black feathers is just stunning. Read More...
Not Your Grandma’s Nightgown
Don’t think for a minute that Victorian undies are frumpy. I’m talking about late Victorian chemises here. They’re not some long, plain gown with no trim, a conservative cut and b-o-r-i-n-g. I hope your frillies make you feel confident. They should because that’s where your time travel begins – when you first throw that chemise Read More...