Returning From Silence

This past month was absolutely busy! So busy, in fact, that something in my life had to give. Unfortunately, the thing that gave was my time spent sewing historic clothing and documenting it here on the blog. I say this by way of apologizing for my unintended and unannounced silence. I’m sure you understand how busy life can be and that you’ll forgive me!

While I was away, I was kindly awarded the Liebster Blog Award by Asa at Fashion Through History blog. Here is a rather belated “thank you!” I’ve actually been nominated for this award once before, and in turn nominated other blogs, so I’m going to skip that this time and just take some time to answer the 10 questions that Asa has asked as part of the nomination.

#1: When and how did you get into sewing?

My grandmother taught me how to quilt when I was in elementary school, but I didn’t really learn how to sew clothing or use a sewing machine until part way through my undergraduate studies when I took a Costume Construction course.

#2: What was your very first garment (historical or other)? And what did you learned from it?

Well, I “made” things for playing dress up when I was young, but I don’t think those quite count. So, let’s call the first garments those I made in that first Costume Construction class. They were almost entirely failures, in the sense that I would never wear them in public despite the fact that they were finished garments. I learned that fabric choice makes a huge difference in having a garment that’s wearable! Also, you learn and practice skills with every garment, even if it isn’t one you are happy with, so there’s those things, too.

#3: Do you have a dream project? And what it is? (Picture?)

I have a lot of dream projects! There’s so many I really can’t pick one, or even a few! They’re mostly dresses, but also include accessories, outerwear, and occasionally separates. Here are links to some of my pinterest boards of “future project” ideas: 1820-1850, 1851-1869, 1870-1899, 1900-1929, and 1930-1960.

#4: Which of your costumes are your favorite and why? (Picture?)

Favorites are hard…

I do really like my 1815 Tree Gown, because it is super comfy to wear, has a fantastic silhouette, and the fabric is just so perfect and fabulous!

My 1819 spencer is pretty fabulous, too. It’s got such fun details and fits well!

Evie, my ball gown from 1864 is a favorite because she’s entirely hand sewn and stunning.

I really love my outfit from 1917. The style is actually quite flattering, I’m impressed that I knitted my own sweater, I love my spat boots, and my fur accessories are just so pet-able! (Plus, my blouse has neat lace details on the collar and cuffs.)

If I only allow myself one more favorite, it’s my 1953 dot dress. It’s grown up polka dots in shades of pink! And it’s super cute and comfortable.

#5: What will be your next big project?

Hopefully, working on my 18th century court gown for Kendra’s sew along over the next few months.

#6: What part of costuming do you enjoy the most (the planning, patternmaking, sewing, details etc.)?

Oh, I do love the planning… Picking out an inspiration image is just so fun! I also absolutely enjoy sewing and adding details.

#7: And what part would you rather not do?

I have to be in the right mood to enjoy patterning. Sometimes it’s just drudgery! And I really don’t enjoy cutting.

#8: Do you have a costuming role model or muse (historical, fellow blogger or other)?

No, can’t say that I have a singular role model or muse. There are lots people I find to be inspiring out there, though, whom have completed amazing and lovely projects.

#9: What’s the reason you decided to start your costuming blog?

I was trying to figure out who I am and what I do in terms of my interest in historic costume research, construction, and wearing. I was encouraged to share that with others and a blog was one way to do that.

#10: What is your best advice for anyone wanting to get into historical costuming?

Get involved with local groups so you have a place to wear your clothes and people who love the hobby and will encourage you. It can be hard to find those groups, sometimes, though, so reading the blogs of people in your area might clue you in as to what they are. Don’t be afraid to comment on blogs, too! You’re invisible until you comment!