The Amazing Gravity-Defying Hairstyle!

Well, Halloween is just a few days away, and I have been spending my extra sewing time putting the last few touches on my costume.  I am very excited about this year…but needless to say, it is not a historical costume….I know, I know.  But it has still been a fun challenge!

However, as I have been practicing creating the appropriate hairstyle, I began to realize that there tends to be a lot more of “behind the scenes” apparatus to help create unique and well-coifed hairdos.  And when I think of unique historical hairstyles…I think 1830’s.  The way the hair twists and braids and sticks up is amazing and I’m sure, has many tricks of the trade.  But I do have to say that I am glad these hairstyles have not come back…I am very confident I would not look good in them.  But perhaps you do, and would like to try a look out for yourself!

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How would they fit those hats over these hairdos?  

 

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Fashion Plates Galore…

When I reach a designing block, I often take to the internet to scour through the vast resources it has to offer.  I have learned that the internet is a marvelous tool for the historical costume designer, with large amounts of free scanned in collections!

Here is a link that has dozens of color fashion plates from the 19th century!  Simply scroll through to find the desired fashion plate, click on the image and it will take you to a screen where you can view the image in amazing detail and focus.  Enjoy!!

http://ccdl.libraries.claremont.edu/cdm/landingpage/collection/fpc

 



Love for the 1880’s

When it comes to the ultimate in trim, fit, and elegance, I have to say that the 1880’s wins the prize!  Between the bustle and the yards upon yards of ruffles, the gowns created during the latter half of the century are magnificent and speak to the elegance of the time.  Here are a few of my favorite examples!

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A Lovely Shade of Blue….

Another example of gown envy…..this time with a stunning light blue mid-1860’s gown with train.    It is a “two-fer” so to speak, as the gown features two separate bodices for day or evening.  Absolutely beautiful!  I especially love the sheer flowers that are sewed into the front of the skirt.

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Perfect Sleepwear

I love robes!  I have several different ones in various colors and textures.  Nothing feels more cozy after a morning shower than a deliciously soft robe, fuzzy slippers and a hot cup of coffee.  Whether you call them wrappers, robes, dressing gowns, or moo moos, I hope you all have one to snuggle up with on those chilly mornings or cozy evenings.

Here are two drawings from the 1850’s of a beautiful women’s robe and suggested slipper designs!

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For more information on wrappers check out this post:

http://aimeevictorianarmoire.com/2014/06/01/the-appeal-of-a-wrapper/