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The American Duchess Guide to 18th Century Dressmaking

Bring History to Life Whether you wish you could time travel to the court of Versailles or the Highlands of Scotland, this comprehensive guide will walk you through how to make and wear your 18th century dream gown. Lauren Stowell and Abby Cox of American Duchess have endeavored to make the impossible possible by bringing historically accurate dressmaking techniques into your sewing room. Learn how to make four of the most iconic 18th century silhouettes—the English Gown, Sacque Gown, Italian Gown and Round Gown—using the same hand sewing techniques done by historic dressmakers. From large hoops to full bums, wool petticoats to grand silk gowns, ruffled aprons to big feathered hats, this manual has project patterns and instructions for every level of 18th century sewing enthusiast. With Lauren and Abby’s guidance, you’ll feel as if you just stepped out of an 18th century portrait. The American Duchess Guide to 18th Century Dressmaking demystifies 18th century fashion and sewing techniques so that you can wear these beautiful gowns with confidence and style.

Dress and Undress

Originally published in 1958, this book deals with the details of dress – formal and informal – from the time of Charles II to the end of the eighteenth century. Most of the illustrations are taken from existing garments preserved in private collections or museums. Many verbatim descriptions are quoted from contemporary sources such as magazines, diaries, letters and newspapers. The popular idea of costume in this period is the formal aspect as shown in portraits, and the undress clothes of the time are little known although obviously commonly worn. These the author has illustrated together with the stays, hops, puffs and panniers, hairdressing and shoes that help to make up the complete appearance. The book will be of interest to those in theatre studies, costume design and social history.

Country Life Illustrated