American Duchess Historic Shoes Blog
Accessorizing for Williamsburg: An 18th Century Fur Muff
On my list of things to make for our March trip to Williamsburg was a fur muff to keep the hands warm, in case of chilly weather. Mrs. Wilbraham Bootle,...
Accessorizing for Williamsburg, 2014
For once I have a decent number of gowns to wear to a big event, but what I *don't* have is a selection of accessories to help with what might...
A Quick 1879 Bonnet from a 1950s Hat
I've had a lot of questions about the bonnet I wore with my 1879 Tea Dress. I didn't have time to construct a late 1870s/early 1880s bonnet, and I'm not...
Introducing New "Cavendish" 18th Century Shoe Buckles
I have a new shiny thing to share with you! I've been working on a new style of buckle for a bit, fashioned after an original pair I found on...
Your Opinions Please - Fully Fashioned Stockings
Hi Ladies! Today I need your votes to help decide some things about the future line of vintage-style seamed stockings I'm working for the shop. Before you vote, here are...
Beautiful Historical Fans - Please Vote!
Hello Lovelies! Today I'd like to share with you a number of gorgeous historical fans, and ask your opinion on which you like the most... Fan #1 - The Met,...
V352: New Vintage Shoe Acquisitions
Well, I've been on eBay entirely too much...again...acquiring vintage and antique footwear for our quickly growing collection. All the shoes I nabbed aren't even here yet, but I wanted to...
V323: American Duchess Historical Holiday Gift Guide
Happy Holidays to all of you and yours! 'Tis the season for jolly times, being thankful, and giving lovely gifts to your dear ones. Stumped on what to give to...
V293: Finished Project: Indienne Print "Curtain-Along" Gown, 1780
I finished my "Curtain-Along" dress in time to wear to Colonial Williamsburg, but it rained the day I had planned to wear it, and only donned it for a couple...
V287: My 18th Century Pocket
So...I did make a pocket. It only took me 7 months to complete because of my intrepid laziness when it comes to hand embroidery. Luckily, flying on airplanes is a...
V282: The DeWitt Museum at Colonial Williamsburg
Today was another rainy, soggy, cold day in Colonial Williamsburg, so we checked out of our hotel and went for an inside-activity, touring the fascinating displays of 18th century furniture,...
V278: How To Fit & Seam Your American Duchess Stockings
So you've purchased a pair of pretty silk stockings from my shop, and you love them, but perhaps they are a little big in the foot, or you would like...