1860s Interchangeable Outfits: A New Project

 Hey there!
Long time no see.

What have I been up to?
Well, I got into the Costume Construction course at Toi Whakaari so that's been taking up a lot of time, as well as just the Christmas/New Years period being hectic.

Anyway, I'm back with a new project! Woah!

I've been wanting to dive into the early 1860s for a while now. Basically, the period where the crinoline cage became an everyday item of wear but before it moved into a more back-focused shape. I want to focus on the classic bell shape that I think is very much imagined when the average person thinks of young Queen Victoria.

I love the way people move in a crinoline cage. It looks as if they are floating on air and I really want to recreate that beauty.

There seems to be quite a bit of versatility within what can be worn at this time. To really maximize this project, I want to make one skirt but with three bodices which all suit the skirt. I'll be working with patterns from Truly Victorian. 

I would absolutely love to make the skirt and bodices from an emerald green silk taffeta but with the way the world is at the moment, those outer pieces may take a while to be made as I'm struggling to find that fabric at an affordable price. It's looking like I'll need about 15 yards of the fabric.

What I need to make:

• Shift
• Crotchless drawers
• Corset
• Crinoline cage
• Two petticoats
• Corset cover
• Several chemisettes and undersleeves
• Standard daytime bodice
• Revere bodice
• Ballroom bodice
• Three tied skirt
• Possibly a hat or two

As you can see, there is a lot that goes along with this ensemble. I want to make a full set so that no matter the occasion, I have an outfit... not that I have any events planned to go to in it haha. One day *fingers crossed*. Either way, it's a fun project for me.

I have a feeling this one will take a while due to my wanting expensive silks in a world that charges a lot for shipping. If anyone knows where to get emerald green silk taffeta in New Zealand, please please let me know.

 
As I have also started my course in February. What I am making for my classes will take priority over this project. I don't think I am allowed to post blogs of me making my uni work, but I'll post photos of my finished pieces on my instagram if you are interested.

Anyway, here are some of my inspiration images. Enjoy!

I'll talk to you soon. Have a swell day!

-Maysie