Sleeves could either be tie on, which was the most common method. They could be hooked on to the bodice, which is what the method I prefer to use. They could be sewed in which didn’t happen all that often, although is not out of the realm possibility. When they are sewn in, they normally are only tacked in so they could be changed out with just snipping threads.
With most Tudor clothing, the ability to mix, a match was important. So being able to change out sleeves or wear a different partlet, could make a gown look completely different. In the terms of Henrician court clothing changing out the fore sleeves, and the under kirtle could make you look like that you have more clothing too. Yet again, separate pieces gives the appearance the owner look like they had more clothing than what they actually did.
Spirit of this, I actually was able to purchase a new Henrician Tudor Court gown from UK reenactor Izabel of Prior Attire. This is a well worn piece that has been to many historical royal places including Hampton court. I am super pleased with this set, it’s made exactly how I want to make my gowns going forward. Since now owning it, as I am able to use it for patterning. It’s made with various kinds of silk, cotton brocade, upholstery velvet, and much stiffening of the bodies.
So you may see me wearing this set with jewelry in a SCA event. Excited to wear it and I also have a purchased dark red Henrician Tudor gown to mix and match this with so should be interesting.
Here is to 1530-1540 Tudor Goodness,
Mairin