This Romantic Era dress was inspired by an original cotton American gown c. 1847 in the collection of the Metropolitan Museum of Art. This transitional style gown features wide, yoked neckline and gathered front bodice. The short, fitted sleeves are…
Over the years, I have had the good fortune to be hired as a freelance costume design specialist by a few in “the Industry. The Industry is the machine that runs the entertainment world. This includes television, film, and large…
I recently put together this 1840s era work dress based on drawings from the Workwoman’s Guide by a Lady. I used pattern #017 by Saundra Ros Altman of Past Patterns. The Workwoman’s Guide refers to the cut of this dress…
When it comes to the crinolines of the 1860s, bigger is not always better. Contrary to popular belief, the crinolines worn by women of this period were not as wide as folklore (or Scarlett O’Hara) wants us to believe. While…
I developed�The Fashion History Pages�in 2002 ago in response to a need for reputable online information regarding the history of Western fashion. These pages were initially designed for educators and students as a place where each could come to gain…
Just a few hours from my studio, the Jane Austen Dresstival in Louisville has been a destination for historical costume enthusiasts and Jane Austen fans from across the nation. The festival has cultivated a serious following for over a decade…
As you my have read in earlier posts, this May we hosted a charity tea in honor of Queen Victoria’s 200th Birthday! (It just so happens this year marks the 25th birthday of Maggie May Clothing too but it would…