During this period in history, your place in society was identified by the quality of your clothes and the number of garments you owned. Sumptuary laws attempted to enforce what you were allowed to wear based on your rank in society – including the type of fabric and the amount of material that could be used in garments. As a general rule, you would probably … Continue reading Fabric Used in the 1500’s
The clothing of the 1400’s had an understated elegance. In the early 1400’s women wore a gown called a “houppelande”. It could be slipped over the head. Often the neckline was v-shaped and the sleeves were tubular. The neckline became broad showing off the undergarment. By the 1470’s the bodice became more closely fitting requiring the gown to be laced up the back. Many skirts had a train. … Continue reading Fashion of the 1400’s
Bandbox, circa 1835 – The Henry Ford In the early 1800s, Americans used bandboxes to store clothing, accessories and other small items. Bandboxes were useful containers at home or when travelling by stage, boat, or rail. Manufacturers covered these inexpensive pasteboard or wooden boxes with colorful papers. This bandbox’s paper depicts a scene along a canal. Notice the small canal boat being pulled by a … Continue reading Early 19th Century Band Boxes
Over a century ago, the demure hand-held accessory was used to convey messages rather than to create a breeze. We are aware of several of the gestures and their meanings. With handle to lips: Kiss me Placing it on left ear: You have changed Fanning slowly: I am married Fanning fast: I am engaged Open wide: Wait for me Dropping: We are friends Drawing across … Continue reading The Language of Fans
The Victorian Shoppe 