American Duchess Historic Shoes Blog
V225: Starting the 1790s "Robe Royaliste"
Before Costume College, I was making plans for a new 1790s gown in purple taffeta, called the "Robe Royaliste." I decided on a chemise style like the lovely green/gold gown...
V220: The Parisian Gown - Finished!
Despite all the trouble this gown gave me, I'm so happy with how it turned out! I certainly learned many a lesson about fabric choice, sleeve construction, and general patterning....
217: Costume College Day 1: Ice Cream Social, Yay!
Costume College is *awesome* ! So far I've met tons of wonderful people, learned all about proper sleeve drafting, altering, and fitting, and made some indestructible 1770s rolls to clip...
V214: 18th Century Silk Clocked Stockings Now on Pre-Order
Okay, ladies (and gents too), it's finally time. The new clocked stockings I've been working on are finally available to order. Purchase yours at www.american-duchess.com . White silk stockings with...
V212: Georgian Hair Hopping
Chris and I did a photo shoot the other night, for the clocked stockings pre-sale coming up in a couple days. I wore my new "Parisian Gown," and wanted to...
V208: 1770s Chapeau de Paris Sketches
I'm winding down the Parisian Gown (at least the gown part of it), and realize I need an awesome hat to go with it. No ordinary bergere will do -...
V205: Nearing Completion for the Parisian Gown
I've been working holes into my fingers over the past week, trying to complete shiny new costumes for Costume College, the first weekend in August. I have her on my...
V203: New Dress Design: Robe Royaliste
I don't have enough 18th century gowns. I have jackets and things, and I do love jackets, but when it comes to full gowns, I have, like, one (soon to...
V200: Redingote Portraits of Win
I love the 1780s and 90s, particularly the mannish styles, like the Redingote. Something about those big collars and buttons, paired with big-ass Gainsborough hats - YUM! Lady in Light...
V201: How To Make a Hedgehog Hairstyle With Your Own Hair
The late 18th century "hedgehog" hairstyle is one of the easiest coifs to create, though is can seem daunting at first. You can create this style on wigs or hairpiece,...
V199: Georgian Man Candy
Oh, I know you're disappointed this post isn't about sexy, be-wigged gentlemen on the 18th century. It's about the kind of bling a man would have worn on his shoes...
V195: Red Dress in The Garden
Here is preview of a shoot Chris and I did yesterday, for this weekend's Bastille Day Sale. More on that tomorrow, along with more photos...