It took me forever to figure out what to write for this! I knew that the Redo challenge needed to be October's Secret challenge, which I missed, but Secret was much easier to do while sewing, putting a little secret embroidery or hidden pocket. At last I remembered an historic dress that has its own … Continue reading A Very Accurate Costume (HSM #12, Redo – #10, Secret)
Category: 1820s
Choosing Fabric: Regency Edition
As a member of several historical-reenactment Facebook groups, I see a lot of people post a photo of cloth they've bought or are thinking of buying with a question about its suitability for a certain era. And so I thought I would write up a guide to give seamstresses more confidence in choosing a fabric, … Continue reading Choosing Fabric: Regency Edition
Waistcoats: 19th and 20th Century
Apart from certain stylistic keys, I've always had a harder time dating men's clothing. It's just not as interesting to me, so I haven't taken the time to really study dated extant pieces and images and improve my skills. But lately I've come across more undated waistcoats while cataloguing - it's become something that I … Continue reading Waistcoats: 19th and 20th Century
The Latest Patterning Visit
Hello, all! I have a series of meaty posts in the works, but they're not quite ready yet, so let me tell you about the most recent visit I made for patterning at the Albany Institute. I've really been concentrating on outerwear, as there are so many extant gowns with interesting construction or trims or … Continue reading The Latest Patterning Visit
Actual Sewing!
So, I spent the past week engaged in making a Regency day dress for myself. Fastest thing I've ever fully put together! Albany's TulipFest is not really intended as a costumed event, but the Empire State Costumers (join us!) can turn any party into a dress-up party. (I'm the second from the right.) To start, … Continue reading Actual Sewing!
Mimic of Modes 