Historical Research

These are a few of the images that have inspired me the most. I like the classical Grecian look that was popular between 1800 and 1803. After that decoration evolved in to a more eastern exotic look, with Egyptian influences.

Fabrics used at the time were fine lawn, muslin or batiste. Muslin was more common than silk as it wasn't quite as expensive. White gowns were worn in the evening and soft pastel colours were worn during the day.

"Get Started" Tutorial

1. Possibly think of a Jane Austen character and look at costumes in various adaptations of Jane Austen's novels.

2. Arrange a visit to Winchester Museum for primary research.

3. Look at Janet Arnold and Norah Waugh pattern books.

4. Think about fabrics

5. Find a model and take measurments.

6. If from a theatrical point of view, bloomers will not be seen, so concentrate on the main garment.

Planning my SDP

For my Self Directed Project I have chosen to create a female costume in the empire line style from the very early 1800s.

This unit gives me the opportunity to plan my own time and follow my own ideas. The focus will be on improving the skills I learnt in previous units, learning new construction techniques and expanding my knowledge of period costume through making a garment from a period of time I have not yet explored. Ultimately I want to refine my finishing techniques, to produce a really well made costume.

I aim to look at this unit from a theatrical perspective, as this will aid my chosen career path in theatre. I will therefore not only be researching the historical fashion, but also some costumes of this style that have been used in various performances.