A Chemise, or Shift, Under All Layers Layers, layers, layers. . .That’s what it takes to interpret the clothing of the working class. . .While I am not a stickler to 100% authenticity, there are certain guidelines that should be addressed if a person wishes to display a visual language to the 18th century onlookers. . .It is a facet of interpreting any century that will be much appreciated by those who want to see history come alive. For years I visited Colonial Williamsburg, knowing that what I saw there. . .be it clothing. . .wares. . .or buildings. . .I could depend on the fact that it was as authentic as possible in our era of time. . . Then a dream came true and I found myself employed there. My greatest joy was being able to dress in authentic reproductions of 18th century English colony clothing. I appreciated even more the hard work that the Costume Design Center went to in order to provide period clothing that was as accurate as possible and still be worn each day by the interpreters. Their standards of appearance were well set. Many did not like having to measure up to those standards each day, but I knew that when I was a visitor, it made all the difference. “Visitors to Colonial Williamsburg receive a lasting and important visual image of life in Colonial America from the clothing worn by our employees. Costumes represent period clothing. When worn correctly, the costume is an important interpretive tool helping to convey an accurate picture of the eighteenth century. Therefore, employees must pay particular attention to the regulations concerning the proper way to appear in costume before the public.” Standards of Appearance, Costume Design Center While I worked in the Mary Dickinson shop (based on that of a milliner’s establishment) I learned a few of the ways that research was done on the period clothing. Art of the 18th century played a huge part in their decisions. What better way than studying the paintings and prints of the 18th century to base a costume on? It’s true that they didn’t get it totally right in the beginning, when there wasn’t enough time to do extensive research, but throughout the years, better choices have been made. The research is on-going to this day. As more is learned, changes are made. So when I decided to study and make period clothing that might have been worn in New France, I began looking at French art and sketches of the people who worked and lived here. There isn’t a lot to go on, so it has taken much time with only a little insight. I have found some striking lap-overs between the French and English dress, but there seems to be a few distinctions, too. The English working class stuck closer to subdued colors, often weaving and dying their own cloth. While the higher class of the British colonies did wear fine silks that were bright and exciting, the common woman rarely had this choice. On the other hand, the French loved color in bright prints and stripes in every class, often combining different prints together. The ladies of New France were not allowed to weave their own cloth. It had to come from the King’s storehouses, thus offering a better fabric from many parts of the world to the working woman. Blues, yellow or golds, reds seem to be popular and suitable for short gowns, jackets and petticoats. Older women wore more subdued colors but the prints available for them were in the same style. Stripes, in a ticking type of weave, were also popular paired with the prints. Petticoats (skirts) were shorter than the English and shoes were often Indian moccasins instead of stiff leather shoes. Aprons might be of white muslin but more often than not, they were of checks or stripes in various colors. Under it all, the chemise (shift as the English call it) was worn. The French corset was the same as the English stays, just a different word. A cap might be worn on her head, but often a blue (most popular) scarf was tied over the hair bandana style. I have noticed that in some sketches, when a cap is worn, a ribbon of blue (most popular) might be tied around it. Nothing that I have found about their clothing is the least bit somber. I’ve included a few of the sketches that I found for a visual view of the French clothing probably suitable as period clothing of those living west of the Mississippi River in the 18th century. The people of New France enjoyed Life and they let their clothing speak of their happy-go-lucky attitude with their clothing. . .just as interpreters of the time period will hopefully do in this present day. source unknown/pinterest

Lately I've been working on a waistcoat to go under my Snowshill riding habit. I really love the look of this menswear inspired style, but before jumping in, I needed to take a closer look at the evolution of the waistcoat throughout the 18th century. Lancret,

- All one needs to make a complete set for mid-18th century French and Canadian women, as well as some pieces for Native allies. Including caps and coif to cover your hair, lined waistcoat (vest), two styles of shift, pockets, instructions and scaled patterns for petticoat, neckerchief and apron. NEW ADDITION : scale pattern for women's cape. Four bust sizes are included : 36” – 38” – 40” – 42”. All La Fleur de Lyse patterns include historical notes about fabrics, colours, trims, accessories, and the way to wear them. - Tout ce qui est nécessaire pour un habillement complet de Française ou de Canadienne de la mi-18e siècle ainsi que pour les alliées amérindiennes. Incluant bonnets et coiffe pour couvrir les cheveux, mantelet doublé (veste), deux styles de chemise, poches, instructions et patrons miniature pour jupon, mouchoir de cou et tablier. NOUVEL AJOUT : patron miniature pour l'indispensable cape. Quatre tailles sont incluses : poitrine 92cm – 97cm – 102cm – 107cm. Tous les patrons La Fleur de Lyse contiennent des notes historiques sur les tissus, les couleurs, les garnitures, les accessoires et la façon de les porter.

I’ve been interested in working class dress lately. And more specifically 18th century maids costumes. searching the net I’ve found lots of pics of pretty outfits and great pattern mixi…

Rococo Baroque Marie Antoinette Ball Dresses 18th Century Renaissance Historical Period Victorian Dress Gown For Women Condition: Brand New Color:  As Picture Material: Satins And Lace Silhouette: Ball Gown Sleeve Length: Full  Sleeve Dresses Length:Floor-Length Neckline: Square-Collar Decoration: Lace Style: Vintage

Women’s hats and hairstyles, 18th century (Click to enlarge) From Ruth Turner Wilcox’s The Mode in Hats and Headdress: A Historical Survey with 198 Plates.

Step back in time with our LOUISE, 18th-Century Dress in Toffee Linen, a beautifully crafted historical garment that brings the elegance and sophistication of the 18th-century fashion to your wardrobe. This one-piece dress, inspired by the "English dress" or "Round Gown" worn in Western Europe and America between 1770-1785, is steeped in history and designed for the modern woman who appreciates timeless style.The dress is made with high-quality linen in a rich toffee shade that is both elegant and versatile. Each dress is handcrafted with meticulous attention to detail, reflecting the handcrafted quality, creativity, and authenticity that our store stand for. This dress is more than just a garment; it's a piece of wearable history, an expression of a love for vintage style and a testament to the timeless appeal of well-crafted, beautiful clothing. Make a statement with the LOUISE, 18th-Century Dress in Toffee Linen, and wear a piece of history.

Please note that most of the dresses presented here in our Etsy store are just examples of our old work for clients. These are not ready made dresses for sale. We realize only customized dresses and we DON'T HAVE SHORT DEADLINES. Therefore, before you make a purchase, please ask us for details in a private message. If you make a purchase without reading this description - we do not accept cancellation of the transaction. We do not accept returns and resignations from an already ordered dress during sewing or after sending it (does not apply to tailoring corrections), because our dresses are made to measure and based on a design that is created individually for each customer. By clicking "buy it now" - you accept our terms. We accept payment plans discussed individually with each client. We are small fashion house Atelier Saint-Honore and we make all designs individually for each clients. All dresses are sewn for measures. We use traditional haute couture techniques like fine hand made finishes, hand made embroidery and artistique techniques of decorations. We offer the highest quality custom service and the best materials. Please ask in private for more details.

This price include tops＋skirts＋panniers hoop＋2 small rose brooch.We have three sizes to choose Due to the weight of the skirt support, only orders within the United States will be given a skirt support Dress Size: S: Bust 34.3-36.3 inches, Waist 26.5-28.5 inches, Shoulder 14-14.5 inches M: Bust 36.2-38.2 inches, Waist 29.5-31.5 inches, Shoulder 15 inches L: Bust 38.2-40.2 inches, Waist 31.5-33.5 inches, Shoulder 15.4-15.9 inches XL: Bust 42.1-44.1 inches, Waist 35.5-37.5 inches, Shoulder 16.4-16.9 inches If you need special sizes, you can also contact me directly.Special customization requires an additional custom fee of $ 50 Dress can be worn as a Venice Carnival costume, Mardi Gras costume, ball dress, halloween costume, marie antoinette cosplay, marie antoinette reenactments, Palace of Versailles events, Bastille day events, waltz dress, and more. Dress is made from a very rich looking pink brocade with Rococo embellishments around the neckline and sleeves, and underskirt petticoat. This listing is for the overskirt, the underskirt and the panniers cage frame 3 separate peices. Dress in the pictures shown in the rose pink. Dress gown costume can be constructed in blue, candy pink, or ivory, and many other colors. I have custom constructed the Rococo trim from a heavy weight wide satin ribbon, and scalloped white scrolling laces. Luscious looking cabbage roses accenting the Rococo trims. These custom built trims add the confectionary dessert appeal that was a favorite theme during the Rococo period. Processing time is around a 4-5 weeks + shipping

Step back in time with our LOUISE, 18th-Century Dress in Toffee Linen, a beautifully crafted historical garment that brings the elegance and sophistication of the 18th-century fashion to your wardrobe. This one-piece dress, inspired by the "English dress" or "Round Gown" worn in Western Europe and America between 1770-1785, is steeped in history and designed for the modern woman who appreciates timeless style.The dress is made with high-quality linen in a rich toffee shade that is both elegant and versatile. Each dress is handcrafted with meticulous attention to detail, reflecting the handcrafted quality, creativity, and authenticity that our store stand for. This dress is more than just a garment; it's a piece of wearable history, an expression of a love for vintage style and a testament to the timeless appeal of well-crafted, beautiful clothing. Make a statement with the LOUISE, 18th-Century Dress in Toffee Linen, and wear a piece of history.

This time of year we start to dream about spring, but until then we all need something to keep us warm. And whats better then some nice woolen overdresses and redingotes.

This is incredibly modern to be me, I know! My latest infatuation has totally been the 18th century pattern drafting, mainly jackets, gowns and a whole bunch of skirts. And hats. Who doesn’t …

So, I really seem to be a lot about the 4th quarter of the 18th century these days – and there’s more to come! Back in the spring I crossed another style off the wishlist: a 1780s Chemi…

Discover the allure of the 1770s with our authentic pre-washed linen dress in a captivating rust orange shade. This exquisite garment is perfect for history enthusiasts and costume collectors who appreciate the beauty and elegance of the era. A truly remarkable gift that captures the spirit of the past. Transport yourself to the elegant 18th century with our LOUISE 18th-Century Dress in Rust Orange Linen. This meticulously crafted replica of the iconic "English dress" embodies the fashion trends of 1770-1785 Western Europe and America. Its striking rust orange color and one-piece design combine historical accuracy with modern craftsmanship. The LOUISE dress features eyelets on both sides of the front opening for a perfect fit. Delicate lace ribbon trims the preformed elbow sleeves, adding a romantic touch. The large pleated skirt measures 37.5 inches (95 cm) in length, reflecting authentic 18th-century fashion. Perfect for historical events or adding a unique piece to your wardrobe, the LOUISE dress epitomizes past elegance. Step into the luxurious world of the 18th century with our LOUISE 18th-Century Dress in Rust Orange Linen. It's more than just a garment; it's an extraordinary journey back in time. ☆ FABRICS ☆ LOUISE is made of prewashed medium-weight linen (205gr/m), in a range of colors matching Atelier Serraspina's color palette. — Outer Fabric — · 100% European linen · Medium weight linen - 6.05 oz/yd² / 205 g/m² · Prewashed so it didn't shrink anymore · Mechanically softened so it is very soft and especially pleasant for your skin · Fabric woven according to universally accepted quality requirements which correspond to OEKO-TEX 100 standards — Bodice Lining — · Composition: 100% Cotton · Type of fabric: Raw Cotton · Approximate weight: 155 gr/m² — Sleeve Lining: — · Composition: 100% Cotton · Type of fabric: Poplin · Approximate weight: 110 gr/m² ☆ SIZING ☆ — Finding the Right Size: --- Please refer to the size chart in the photos gallery to select the correct size for your dress. Keep in mind that historical costumes don't follow standard sizing, so getting an accurate fit is important for comfort and effectiveness. — Custom Sizing:---- If your measurements don't align perfectly with the sizes on the chart, we recommend choosing the "custom size" option. Please submit your measurements in the customization field when placing your order. — Important Note: … Made-to-order items cannot be returned. Please make sure you're certain about the size you choose. If unsure, opt for the custom fit option. ☆ CARE INSTRUCTIONS ☆ To care for your costume, we recommend dry cleaning only, ensuring your costume remains in pristine condition for all your historical adventures. ☆ HOW TO DRESS ☆ · After putting on your historical underwear, step into the dress by sliding it over your head. · Allow the back of the dress to hang behind you, and position the front panel against your abdomen (ensuring the waistband covers the lower ribs). · Secure the front panel around your waist with the cotton ties. · Finally, put your arms through the sleeves and arrange the train folds. · To finish, thread the cord through the eyelets from bottom to top and conceal the knot in the neckline. ☆ PROCESSING TIMES ☆ All our garments, including the LOUISE dresses, are handmade in our workshop in Spain. Each piece is crafted with love and care, using the finest materials to ensure excellent quality. These garments are meant to be cherished for years to come. Please note that our items are meticulously handmade, which means it will take some time for us to create them. The typical production time for a LOUISE dress ranges from 6-8 weeks, depending on the current order volume. Keep in mind that the processing time does not include shipping.