American Duchess Shoes!

Here's the lo-down on Virginia:

• All-leather construction: upper, lining, sole
• T-strap latchets adjust with metal-tipped lacing.
• Period slashing pattern (topical only, does not go all the way through the shoe - keep the dirt out!)
• Slightly square toe
• Period correct for c. 1580 - 1630
• Available in two colors - dark brown oiled leather -or- tan buffed leather

Virginia was developed with the help of Jamestown head costumer Chris D., and input from you, our followers. It's a unisex style that works with a variety of Elizabethan and Jacobean clothing, and will keep you comfortable and looking swell all day.

Pre-Order runs October 17 - November 3. Get a free pair of stockings ($25 value) or a $10 cash discount when you place your order during this time. Pre-orders placed also count for 5 points in our giveaway, which means you could get your pair totally free!

Costume Smorgasbord - Part Two

Second slew of costumes! Trying to play catch-up with myself here.

 Civil War Day Dress - Simplicity 4400

I made this for my younger sister and ended up wearing it myself a few times! Very simple cotton dress, but I left off the puffed sleeves and made the 3/4 long. LOVE this bodice pattern!

                                        Simplicity 4400 Bodice - Sleeves Simplicity 2881

Same story. Needed a simple day dress and wanted shorter sleeves. I saw examples of this type of sleeve for a day dress and loved it! For the neckline, I just kept cutting it bigger till I was happy.

                                                Simplicity 4055 - Regency Muslin Gown

I've made this up three or four times now, it's so easy and quick to sew! I have to make changes, such as lowering the waist an inch and a half, and the skirt could use some more yardage... But it's a lovely dress to dance in, and so easy to make in a fancy or plain style! Now... WHERE is Mr. Darcy?

                                               Simplicity 3782 - Elizabethan  Traveling Gown

This gown was made this a size too large, taken apart a year later and started over again. VERY easy to make, and so fun to wear! Next time I want to make it a bit more sumptuous! The hat was made from a pattern given to me by my dear friend Lauren, and trimmed with an antique plume!

                                                           Butterick 5970 - 1900's Skirt

The PEERS picnic in Alameda is always a lovely time, and this year the theme was 1902. This skirt was simple and quick to make! Cotton this time, but I want to make it up again for an evening ensemble.

Part Three coming soon!