Monday, June 25, 2012

Elizabethan Possibilites


Well I finally found a gown from the 1590's I would like to attempt to make that is not a total encumbrance in making. I included a larger photo, so you can see all the detail in the gown. What I like about this gown is the possibilities of a simple design with elegant execution. We have a simple capped sleeve with stripes of colored silk embroidery, lace partlet framed by a standing ruff, some lace trim on the gown, a lovely teal open over gown, the notorious netted Whisk Collar, and jewels in the hair. I believe Elizabeth received the Fairy Queen title, because of the ethereal look the Whisk Collar gave and the wing effect it potentially creates. Though that is just a theory of mine, hard to say if its right.

I will still not be able to do much with wearing this gown but is worth making it for Ice Dragon to wear next year. Though, I would love to make this gown with shot silk taffeta with the intent to make it an entry. I don't think I could take the ripping apart I would receive from the judges for the way I make my costumes. Undecided at this point with all the other Elizabethan items I would be entering if this would be the perfect complement to the menagerie I already have. Oh decisions, decisions! Luckily there is lots of time to decide and make up this outfit.

Thinking of using some faux silk curtains for the heavyness this gown will require, I do have ruffs ready for this gown and thinking of repurosing my wedding veil trim with some silk organza for the Whisk Collar. I already have a pendant that is a dead ringer for the one in the painting So, I have ideas though there is lots more time to gather materials.

Have to finish the other gowns, working on beading now. Pictures soon coming I promise, in the mean time back to work.

Garb Daydreaming,
Maureen
Posted by at
Labels: , , , ,

No comments:

Post a Comment

Subscribe to: Post Comments (Atom)

Replica 1560's Venetian Italian Fashion Doll

Replica 1560's Venetian Italian Fashion Doll

Replica 1560 French Fashion Doll

Replica 1560 French Fashion Doll

Tudor Q and A

What is a Tudorosity?

A mashed combination of the words Tudor and Curiosity to create the word Tudorosity. Tudorosities is the plural form and the deffinition is as follows.

Tudorosity- an desire to learn or know anything about the Tudor dynasty associated with years 1405 through 1603.

Most people ask my why I make the Tudor garb ?

I find the clothing of this era not only beautiful but also challenging to sew. There is much more care and purpose put into making garments and wearing garments in the Tudor Era. I love the look of Tudor so much I wanted to explore the way clothes were made back then and the subtle changes in fashion and styles of time.

How did you get started in this interesting hobby?

I started with art first, I love to draw, paint, and sculpt all the traditional fine arts. So being able to draw helps me visualize the looks I want to create in my garb. History has always been a huge interest of mine and I've had a knack for sewing since I was 7 years old. It all started with doll clothes and I learned cross stitch embroidery from my grandmother when I was little. I am self taught sewer, crochet, knitting, embroidery and tatting. My methods are learned from books mainly and there is still so much more to learn.

What is my favorite outfit and why?

It would be like picking a favorite out of one of my future children, its impossible. I love all my gown creations and really like the distinct differences in all the styles clothing I make for the Tudor Era.

Do you make the whole outfit including hat, shoes, and undergarments?

I do have a goal of making a complete Tudor from the skin out. As of right now I make 90% of my gowns and accessories. The shoes and stockings, are bought online and the petticoats are a close reproduction but not made by me. .

How long does it take to make a gown?

It all depends on the type of gown. The making relies on the time period and class of the design. Generally if I work on it 8 hours a day on a sewing machine it will take 3 days to get the basics and another 5 days to do finish hand-sewing details and beading. So a week to a week and a half if working on it steady for that amount of time. I work a full-time job so it does take longer than a week to complete. I put over 40-100 hours per outfit depending on its complexity, its like its own full time job of sorts.

Do you make renaissance clothing for sale or custom orders?

No, due to new employment and changes in my lifestyle. Unfortunately, I have no time to support sewing for others. Though I recommend sewing lessons for those adventurous few. There are many fine folks who make and sell historical clothing. I suggest guidance with sew from many fine historical enthusiastic costumers out on the internet.

How long have you been making these elaborate costumes?

I have been in the Society of Creative Anachronism coming up on my 18th year. Active since 2004 working at demonstrations and volunteering when I could between working and other life's distractions. I really concentrated on Tudor sewing in 2007 and worked with patterns to learn proper fabrics, techniques, fit, and silhouette. I really enjoy the eras transition from a medieval form fitting layered cotterdie to the boned Tudor kirtle and then to structured Elizabethan clothing.

Replica 1490 Milan Italian Fashion Doll

Replica 1490 Milan Italian Fashion Doll
Based on art by Giovanni Ambrogio

O’Kealy Heraldry

O’Kealy Heraldry