What did Victorians used to wear? Especially Victorian ladies?

Question

I am taking part in a Victorian christmas event - what should I wear? I am on a really tight budget so can't afford to rent anything - any ideas? Many Thanks

Answer 1

Well, you might have to sew, but if you can't, here are a few basics. They should be easy to find, considering that thrift stores should have some interesting things AND some of them are in style, meaning you can get them at Target or something.

Ok! You need a good floor length skirt, with a back detail preferably and a bustle. It should be in a rich color, try deep reds, luxe burgandys, rich chocolates and creamy forest greens. Remember, the principles of color haven't really changed much: darker colors are better in winter, they reflect the darkness and the richness of the colder months. They also keep heat better, always a plus....

To go with that skirt, you will need a blouse, preferably with either collar detailing (ruffles, lace for banded colors) or a big bow. make sure the sleeves are detailed, but easy to wear under a jacket with a muff. Speaking of the jacket, get a jacket in the same color as the skirt, or a slightly darker shade. Make sure it is fitted at the waist, with puffed shoulders preferably. A rounded collar is preferable. Make sure you accent the affor mentioned ruffles or bow on your collar!

Finnaly, you will need a hat, probably with feathers or flowers or some other big gigantic extravagant object adorning. Make sure you perch it on your head, over your very extravagant hair. For shoes, none of those high pumps that people wear nowadays. Kitten heeled t-straps should do the trick! Wear a muff if it is to cold, make sure it goes well with the outfit though.

Well, good luck on this!!! I hope you do well!!!

Answer 2

Can you sew? There are lots of patterns for Victorian dresses. Google to see what they look like. Here is a free pattern for the cape, which might be all you need if you have a long skirt. your shirt probably won't show under it. If you really want a bustle under your skirt, just cut the bottom out of a big plastic coffee can and thread a ribbon thru to tie it around your waist under your skirt. For your hair, make braided pigtails and curl them around in a circle, then tie with ribbons. Instant Vic! Here's the cape pattern http://www.tudorlinks.com/treasury/freepatterns/em185609wfasman.html

Answer 3

Well, would suggest a frilly white blouse, with black corset over and a long black skirt with lace up boots... if you can find a ladies hat to go with it add a big black ribbon to tie onto yourhead.

Answer 4

http://home.earthlink.net/~zhizhu/WomensClothingPage.htm