American Duchess Historic Shoes Blog
The 7 Stages of Piecing
There are very few historical projects I've made over the years that have gone totally smoothly. In fact, I can think of one. Every other gown I've made, and a...
Lost In New York: Redthreaded and American Duchess Hit the Big Apple
Adventures in New York City! Back in May I visited New York City...again...it's becoming a weirdly regular occurrence and that's no bad thing. I love NYC. I love it -...
PRE-ORDER: Kensingtons for ALL!
My lovelies, today we have a *major* announcement for you. Lovers of 18th century costume rejoice, for our most popular "Kensington" 18th century shoes are now available in a range...
New Kensingtons Are Coming...
Ladies, we have a *big* announcement coming soon...
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How to Fit 18th Century Shoe Buckles
You've just got yourself a fine new pair of American Duchess 18th century shoes and you ordered some sparkly 18th century shoe buckles to go with them. Now what? Fitting...
An 1880s Bodice Plastron - Refit
Me and Abby in our bustle gowns - totally different styles but we actually used the same pattern for the apron. Do you ever pop into your Costume Closet to...
I'm Going "Durrells" For the Summer
Or forever. Fans Addicts of British television will be familiar with the wonderful series "The Durrells" (or "The Durrells in Corfu" if you're here in the US where for some...
What Are Those Knobbles on 1790s Stays?
From "Corsets and Crinolines" by Norah Waugh - see those nobbles? What are those nobbles for? Read on... Have you ever wondered about those weird round knobbles and pads on...
Book Signing Soiree at Lacis Museum of Lace & Textiles
This past weekend we popped over The Hill down to Berkeley to visit on of our favorite shops *ever* - Lacis Museum of Lace and Textiles. We were honored to...
The Creature Reborn - Retrimming the Pink Polonaise
Once upon a time I made a pink taffeta polonaise and trimmed it in organza, a very 1770s thing to do. At the time, I tried hand roll hemming and...
Podcast Episode 17: Embracing Your Eccentric Historical Self with Zack Pinsent, Historic Tailor
Hey Everybody! Woohoo! We have a new episode of Fashion History with American Duchess to share with you today! Earlier this year, we managed to get our favorite English tailor,...
1765 Robe a la Bon Bon - Progress on the Gown
The sacque back is looking swell I've been sewing on-and-off on my new sacque for a few weeks now. I only have the weekends to fiddle these days, but luckily...