Ribbon corsets

By | August 10th, 2023|Categories: Edwardian Era, Fashion history, Underpinnings|Tags: , |

In my recent post about Victorian summer dresses, I came across photos of ventilated corsets; corsets made of ribbon or strips of fabric connecting the boning and ties. At first, I thought that they may have been a new summer-friendly invention of the late Victorian era but I came to learn that ribbon corsets were [...]

The Difference between Corsets and Bustiers

By | May 19th, 2011|Categories: Fashion, Underpinnings, Victorian Era, Women's History|Tags: , , , , |

Bustiers and corsets are common historical undergarments that pair well with Victorian and Edwardian dresses. While the terms are sometimes used synonymously, in reality, they are two completely different undergarments used for different reasons. Dressing for a historic event? Check out our complete guide: Preparing for an Edwardian-themed event. Corsets The bustier and the corset [...]

Bloomers, Pantaloons, and Knickers – Oh My!

By | April 10th, 2011|Categories: Underpinnings|Tags: , , , , , , |

Pantaloons, drawers, knickers, and bloomers. What do all of these items have in common? During the 1800’s all were adopted by women as a necessary article of clothing. During the early nineteenth century women did not typically wear anything under their skirts and petticoats. However, during the empire period early in the century, women’s clothing [...]

The Changing Shapes of Victorian Fashion

By | April 9th, 2011|Categories: Fashion|Tags: , , , |

Many of us tend to think “Victorian” whenever we see certain floral prints, or a vintage-looking Valentines card. However, when applying the term to clothing we must follow a very specific set of guidelines. The “Victorian period” of history coincides with the ascension and reign of Queen Victoria from 1870 to 1900. Young and lovely, [...]