Posted in 1850s, 1860s, Commissions, Victorian-Crinoline

January 9, 2025January 11, 2025

Mid 19th century Work Woman Dresses

These two 1840s-1860s era Work Woman dresses in cotton calico and plaid are fashionable, versatile, and hard working garments for every day wear.

These two custom mid 19th century Work Woman dresses were made for a museum client who chose to send us fabrics.

Clients who do not see exactly what they are looking for in our fabric catalog, or have a specific pattern they are working with, are more than welcome to send yardage to the studio. We will happily use it with our original dress designs. Just be sure to read the full garment description for proper yardage requirements.

Please note, we do not work with synthetic fibers so please take that into account when choosing fabrics to send us! Be aware some fabrics may not be suitable for specific designs, so please reach out with any questions!

About Susan

My interest in historical costume began at a very early age. I knew by age 5 I wanted to be a designer. Over the years I have been fortunate enough to turn my passion into a full time business. You can find my costumes onstage in NYC, on the big screen, and in museums around the globe. View all posts by Susan

I am the lead designer and founder of Maggie May Clothing! Since childhood, I have been fascinated with folklife, history, and the “old ways of doing things.” When I was six years, my mother, Maggie May, made me my first historical costume (a Holly Hobby calico dress with matching sunbonnet)! As I grew older, I realized by donning the clothing of the past, I could obtain a deeper understanding of those who came before us. This fascination has followed me through life. I am now a formally trained historian and artist. I rely on my understanding of the past coupled with creative problem solving skills to design, drape, and create historical garments. When I am not working in my studio, I am tending my 12 acre hobby farm, playing dress up with my own children, or kayaking in the mountains.