Some Assembly Required...

[St. George]

That 'should' be the title for a reference book that is noteworthy, especially when you're researching a specific time frame to portray.

'Victorian Fashions & Costumes from HARPER'S BAZAR - 1867-1898' - edited and with an introduction by Stella Blum (ISBN 0-486-22990-4 - Library of Congress Catalog Card - 73-92635)

It features 1000 illustrations, and the Table of Contents lists:

I.   Bustles and Puffs (1867-1864)

II.  Natural Form and Cuirass Body (1875-1882)

III. Return of the Bustle (1883-1890)

IV. Hourglass Figure (1891-1898)

There's a glossary featuring some pretty arcane terminology, as well.

Your Public Library can probably get you a copy for your review, if they don't already have one on the Reference shelf.

Vaya,

Scouts Out!

[Dr. Bob]

Howdy St. George,

Does this book have men's clothing too?  Thanks!

[St. George]

No.

The intended primary audience of 'Harper's Bazar' was geared toward's women's fashions of the day, and this particular book reflects that.

It was also designed for the woman who had servants, and a helluva lot of time, since these fashions are 'fashionable' - and not 'utilitarian' - by any means, and reflect a society absolutely filled with social conventions and proper dress for same.

Vaya,

Scouts Out!

[Four-Eyed Buck]

Over on The Carolina Belles web site, there's sections devoted to illustrations and links to Victorian clothing plates. Also some of the ladies have compiled some of these type books onto DVD's that you can purchase. Lot's of How-To sections as well. A wealthg of info to be had there. As well as photos of the member's creations and some really nice people.
                            www.carolinabelles.net/vb/

[St. George]

It takes a lot to do a Victorian outfit - a lot of time, a lot of fabric, and a lot of dedication to getting it right.

Men have a much easier time of it, since 'everything' men wore - even the very formal clothing - can be donned easily and alone - and hasn't changed all that much since those days.

Mostly - men have a problem tying the tie or cravat - and there are fixes for that - as there were back then.

For a woman to get dolled up in the latest fashion required a crew, and an amazing ability to hold their breath - but when they're done - the effect is amazing.

Vaya,

Scouts Out!

[Steel Horse Bailey]

Howdy!

"- the effect is amazing."

St. George, You got that right!