These are some of the best pages in the world. hehehe
http://butterick.mccall.com/historical-pages-385.php
http://mccallpattern.mccall.com/historical-pages-493.php
http://www.simplicity.com/c-264-historical.aspx
I own pretty much all of the patterns on the above pages – well at least as of the time that I’m writing this – and I’m finally thinking about starting on my collection of Victorian-wear
While I was swotting up on Victorian petticoats (a must), I came across the text below, which I just had to include:
A woman of ‘quality’ was expected to look as though she didn’t do anything except needlework and wait for her man. When in reality, she worked as hard as any field hand!! She had to be able to run a household of many members so seamlessly that no-one knew she was doing it. She also had to manage accounts, schedule and plan for supplies and deliveries and meals, not to mention parties, balls, etc. She also had children (whether her own, the children of the household or family) to look after, and she was expected to be the first to administer medical care in times of illness and injury.
But!!
She was never to be seen doing any of these things!! She was the force behind the scenes. The quiet voice of reason, the iron rod of discipline, the keeper of the purse, the manager of the staff. To any who might see her, she was the languid, helpless, softly, feminine flower of the south.
She had white, soft skin. Glossy hair, and bright, shining eyes. She never raised her voice and she was never in a hurry. If you listen to older ladies from the south, you’ll find they speak, softly, and with a gentle, measured cadence.
Here’s a link that’s inspired me somewhat.
http://www.lady-faire.com/petticoat.html
My first petticoat, however, is going to be pretty simple.
I’m taking some flexible branches from the lilac bush outside, and will bend them into circles, bound with florist’s tape, to ensure that the largest hoop will fit through the doorways in our house!!
I’ll then have some removable rings of tulle to add body to the hoop skirt / petticoat.