A Catch-Up at Victorian Gothic

This week has seen two samples almost complete. I hope to finish them later on today. Both of them are white, one based on an 1860’s example of a wedding dress, the other on an evening dress with removable train of 1882. Just wish the weather would hurry up and improve so that I can take some photographs of them in lieu of a proper photo shoot with a couple of models which I am planning on doing around the end of August. Any would be models out there, do get in contact. Samples will fit bust 36-38, waist 26-30.

New sample books to add to the ones that I already have will also be arriving in the next couple of days. These include: Brocades, bodice and waistcoat designs of European and U.K origin. Colours available include ivory, pastels and darker colours including 3 silk jacquards.  European Embroideries/Sequinned/Crystalled These embroideries come from Austria, France and Italy. They are on a variety of base fabrics including tulle, chiffon, organza, dupion and velvet. Some qualities are available with Swarovski crystals or sequins. Mostly they are finer more detailed designs than the ones from the Far East. Motifs, a range of embroidered designs, many with hand beading and crystals. Colours offered include Ivory, White, Black and Champagne and Dress Accessories which includes buckles, brooches, clasps, chains and pearl and crystal buttons. Some items are with Swarovski crystals. Most pieces use either pearls, crystals or both.

A tiny selection of just some of the new items that I will be offering (yes, rather excited as they do look really beautiful with so many uses.)

 

Bridal season is in full swing with a visit from a bride for her final fitting this week, which went very well. No adjustments were needed to the bodice and the skirt was just set at the correct length, dress is now in the post and should be with her by the time most of you read this.  Bride number two this week had her fitting for her 1950’s style dress which again was a perfect fit and so flattering on her. I’m looking forward to her Rock ‘N’ Roll bikers wedding (we’re going to the reception).

The coming week see’s work on two bridal dresses, finishing the 1950’s one, making a jacket bodice mock up for another, plus hopefully completing two more dress samples ready for a brides visit on Saturday. I think I’ll be burning the midnight oil this week!

I'll leave you with a final thought......Two 1950's famous pin-ups Bettie Page & Marilyn Monroe, but with the current vintage styles in fashion right now, could they have looked like this if they had been born 60 years later?

A Poke at Fashion, Victorian Style!

Whilst taking a break from samples and commissions these I found quite amusing. Things haven't changed much!

'New contrivance for lady's maids adapted to the present style of fashion.'

Czar Kolokol, King of Bells, Moscow,  Queen of Belles, New York,  City Hall Bell.

Arabella Maria. "Only to think, Julia dear, that our Mothers wore such ridiculous fashions as these!"

Remarkable convenience of hoops for young mothers in the country.

This is a satiric image based on a comic from Punch magazine. It's part of a comical stereoview series making fun of women's fashion at the time.

'Suggestions for Novelties in Sleeves'

Fig. 1 Cricket Bat Sleeves (with splice for married ladies), Fig. 2 Balloon Sleeves, Fig. 3 Scull and Paddle Sleeves, Fig. 4 Saddle Sleeves. Fig. 5 Racket Sleeves & Fig. 6 Gun Sleeves.

Gertrude. "My dear Jessie, what on earth is that bicycle suit for?"

Jessie. "Why, to wear of course." Gertrude. "But you haven't got a bicycle!"

Jessie. "No: But I've got a sewing machine!"

On which note I'll leave you as I must get back to mine!