So you’ve been curious about Victorian dresses, attire, corsetts, hats and the like have you? Ever wonder if you could wear the garments comfortably in today’s world? The costumed historical events group I belong to (Somewhere in Time, Unlimited) which is based here in Seattle is making plans to attend the Victorian Festival over in Port Townsend, Washington. We’ll have the usual amount of ladies in attendance, but many husbands will be coming along as well. I can hardly wait!!!
When I first started looking for patterns, I went to the usual suspects of Butterick, Simplicity and McCalls. I also was given a nudge to consider a pattern company called “Truly Victorian” and now I’m SOLD! My garsch have these ladies gone to town with what can be done. You MUST check out their website and look at the cool photos of beautifully sewn garments.
Originally, I thought of the bustle-era when I think of “Victorian”, but I quickly realized that I could wear Civil War era garments or even styles out to around 1900.
I figured with my waistline and backside, I probably shouldn’t think about adding even more shadow in the form of a bustle, so I’m going for the 1896-ish look. This means huge puffy sleeves and a walking skirt – far easier when you have to do a lot of walking or need to stuff yourself behind a steering wheel of a modern vehicle!
If you want to come join us for the Victorian Festival, give me a shout via email. We hope to be going to tea, watching the fashion show and doing a tour of the wonderful homes while there. You might be able to hook a ride with one of us heading over on the ferry. Some are planning to stay overnight so they can participate in the gala dance at night. Check out the website for more details: www.SITUSeattle.com and click on “Dress Up Opportunities”. I hope to have things posted there after 2/20/08.
Historical Costuming - Seattle 