59 Authentic Turn of the Century Fashion Patterns
Immerse yourself in the elegance of the late Victorian era with this comprehensive collection of historical tailoring resources. Authored by Kristina Harris and published by Dover Publications, this volume serves as an essential reference for costume designers, fashion historians, and period enthusiasts. It captures the distinct aesthetic of the 1890s, offering a detailed window into a time when high necks, long sleeves, and floor-length skirts defined the fashionable silhouette.
Key Benefits
- Primary Source Material: The content is meticulously reproduced from rare original issues of the quarterly magazine The Voice of Fashion, specifically drawing from editions published in the 1890s. This ensures that every design cue is historically accurate to the "Turn of the Century" era.
- Diverse Garment Selection: While the primary focus is on stylish daywear for women, this collection goes beyond standard dresses. It includes patterns for house dresses and nightwear, providing a full scope of a woman's wardrobe from that period.
- Family Fashion Included: Unlike many fashion books that focus solely on women, this volume features a selection of suits and dresses for young boys and girls, as well as several garments for men, making it a versatile resource for costuming entire theatrical casts.
- Detailed Construction Insights: The book contains 59 distinct examples, offering a deep dive into the complex tailoring required to achieve the authentic 1890s look, characterized by structured tailoring techniques and specific period details.
Key Specifications
- Title: 59 Authentic Turn of the Century Fashion Patterns
- Author: Kristina Harris
- Publisher: Dover Publications
- Language: English
- Format: Paperback
- Dimensions: 22.8 cm x 0.9 cm x 30.3 cm
- ISBN: 9780486283579
- Publication Year: 1995
Usage & Reference
This book is designed as a visual and structural reference guide for intermediate to advanced dressmakers and tailors.
- Research: Use the illustrations to study the architecture of vintage garments and the specific cut of sleeves and bodices from the 1890s.
- Pattern Drafting: While these are reduced-scale references, they serve as the blueprint for drafting full-size patterns. Users can utilize the diagrams to create their own blocks or modify modern patterns to match the historical aesthetic.
- Costume Design: Ideal for verifying the accuracy of theatrical costumes or historical reenactment attire.
Care & Storage
- Storage: Keep the book in a cool, dry environment (bookshelf or flat storage) to prevent paper degradation or warping of the binding.
- Light Exposure: Avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight to keep the cover art and internal pages from fading over time.
- Handling: Handle with clean hands to preserve the integrity of the intricate illustrations and text.
Notes:
"Reproduced from rare original issues..."