All posts filed under: 18th Century

Someone else’s very engaging sewing (and cats!)

Published by The Dreamstress

Remember Madame Ornata, who makes gorgeous petticoats and stays, and luscious silk pet en l’aires, and who takes care of adorable geckos? Well, while I’ve been away in Hawaii sewing un-costumey, un-historical, un-romantic stuff, she has been sewing up a romantic, historical, costumey storm. And as her official blogger, I feel obligated to show you what she has been up to. Among other things, she has been making detachable lace engageates for the pet that we draped together (which reminds me that I must post updates on the progress, as the pet is almost done!). Madame Ornata loves lace, and she was able to buy a bunch of lovely patterns in bulk from the Fabric Warehouse. This stuff has embroidery on a soft rayon or nylon net.  Not historically accurate in materials or technique, but closer in feel and drape to silk lace than most other options that are available. Being the amazingly talented (and slightly insane) Virgo that she is, not only did Madame Ornata hand gather and stitch the lace to a ribbon… …

Rate the Dress: 1750s Robe a l’Anglaise

Published by The Dreamstress

Last week you looked at a very unsimple puffed and frilled lavender and mauve creation from the 1820s.  Some of you loved it and gave it a perfect 10, but most of you thought it was a bit fussy and unflattering, so it rated a 6 out of 10. This week, dear readers, I direct your fashion critique towards the 18th century, and specifically to a simple ca. 1750 robe a l’Anglaise. Unusually for the period, this fabric is not pastel, but instead a rich brick red brocade silk, sprinkled with apricot and pink roses.  Unfortunately, the petticoat that was worn with the dress is no longer extent, so you will have to rate it on the merits of what is left. What do you think?  Is the unusual colour a success or an unfortunate aberration? Rate the Dress on a scale of 1 to 10