I’ve been on a roll finishing up foundation and accessory projects that I started over the summer as smaller pieces of larger ensembles I have in the works! Today, I’m sharing about a hand sewn 1790s cap!
This accessory qualifies for the Historical Sew Monthly Challenge #5, Hair Apparel:
Make something worn in the hair or on the head.
Just the facts:
Fabric/Materials: ¼ yd white linen, ¼ yd white silk organza, ¼ yd gold striped polyester organza, and 1 yd ¼” white cotton twill tape.
Pattern: 1790s “Vigée le Brun” Turban Cap in the book The American Duchess Guide To 18th Century Dressmaking, by Lauren Stowell and Abby Cox.
Year: c. 1790.
Notions: Thread.
How historically accurate is it?: 95%. Polyester is obviously not historically accurate, but most of the materials, methods, and hand sewing method are.
Hours to complete: 5.
First worn: Has not been worn yet.
Total cost: All of the materials are from the stash (leftovers from other projects), so let’s say free!
This is a fun accessory to add to my collection! I’m amused by the oversized crown and bow. The oversized crown, especially, is visible in the photo below.
The silk organza used for the outer crown is fun, but when considered with the all white dress in the works it seemed a bit monochromatic. So to liven things up a bit, I decided on a gold stripe organza (leftovers from my 1817 Duchess Gown) for the bow. It’s polyester, so points off for historical accuracy, but I like that it’s neutral but more interesting than white.
For now the cap is just living on my sewing table so the carefully pressed fabrics don’t crease. Hopefully, next year the cap will get an outing and be documented on my head!
The Quintessential Clothes Pen 