

The iconic crinoline frock - for a boy methinks!
The two little crinoline gown's I bought recently and available in the store, are simply classics of the 1840-50's, early Victorian period. No wonder, then, that they are so widely included in some of the best books on the history of clothing. The references I am using in this blog come from the following, all highly recommended, books. They should be on the shelves of every antique clothing collector [full references can be found in The Study - Book List] : 'Children's Costu


The 19th Century farmer's smock
Is it because I am an Earth sign of the zodiac? Probably not! But over many years, I have tried to buy traditional farmers' smocks whenever I can. Of course, there are serious collectors of these 'rare to find' items, so I only get one when I am lucky! In this instance, I was very lucky indeed, because I bought two together, clearly belonging to the farmer's sons. The smock worn by farmer's endured through the 18th Century and 19th Century, only dying out as a working garment


An altered 18th Century dress: Let's explore!
18th Century gowns are quite rare, so those of you who have never examined one may enjoy this short analysis. I am selling this dress as it is, for renovation, so you can also read here to see the full condition and what needs to be done to bring it back to [almost] the 18th Century! If no-one wants her as she is, she will sadly be dismantled to sell for the wonderful silk fabric. The flowers are in pairs, quite unusual, and the colours are gorgeous - blues, reds, a delightfu


'Tis the time for Bluebells!
Can there be anything in this World as breathtaking as an ancient English bluebell wood? Blue is the most glorious of colours. Every Century of fabric designers had their own version of blue, all beautiful in their own right .... VICTORIAN BLUE SILK GOWN REGENCY SILK INFANT CAP GEORGIAN BLUE SILK STOMACHER FRAGMENT OF 17TH CENTURY EMBROIDERY But I have never, ever seen the true colour of bluebells.... And still less, that heavenly scent! This posting is for to my talented fr