October 2011

e-mail@costumehistorian.co.uk

on-line enquiry form

October 2011

Hello -

It's more like March than October as I'm writing this - patches of warm sun, chill blustery showers and not knowing what to wear when you step out of doors. Strange to think that in a few short weeks, Christmas will be upon us. Mind you, I've just presented my first 'Jane Austen's Christmas' of the year, in the blazing heat of late September, and there are many more to come, at new venues and old favourites alike.

Now for a bit of news....

A fortnight ago, I was filmed for 'The One Show' on BBC1, at the gorgeous Newby Hall in North Yorkshire, for a piece on Georgian funerals - keep your eyes open for that in the coming weeks. It was great to meet Ruth and the rest of the crew, and I had a really interesting morning, including my glimpse of an antique hearse drawn by black horses complete with feather plumes.

Stop Press!!! The production company are waiting for voiceovers to be completed, and the piece will be aired in the New Year - a bit of a wait, but hopefully well worth it!

All You Need Is Love

After giving a presentation of '200 Years of Royal Brides' as a one-off special for a Yorkshire WI, the lightbulb lit up over my head and I realised I had another 'winner' on my hands - so I am now offering this lovely talk to everyone. Featuring two replica Royal bridal gowns, lots of beautiful wedding ephemera and a huge helping of romance, this presentation follows the stories of seven Royal ladies, from Princess Charlotte of Wales to Miss Kate Middleton.

Donations

A huge thankyou is due to Dorothy of Durham Federation WI for the exquisite evening bags, the marvellous Victorian chatelaine (which will feature in 'Queen Victoria - In Royal Fashion'), and her totally lovely wax flower wedding headdress and veil (gracing the 'Royal Brides' presentation). They will all be greatly treasured, and admired while on display.

New Projects

Many people have asked if I have my own pattern line, as they've admired this or that garment and would like to make one for themselves. After thinking it over for ages, I've decided to put together a small number of patterns, taken from items in my own collection. They'll be available to buy from my website. The first will be a revision of the 'Reticule Pattern' with new features, and the second is to be ' Regency Caps' (both out in time for Christmas). I'll then begin work on Regency Shift and Stays patterns, working my way towards a Gown. Thankyou to all who have enquired and shown great patience while I got my thoughts together!

Click here to sign up to my newsletter

Back