Historical costuming

I have been sewing historical clothing for more than 10 years. Whether you are going for a completely period ensemble or something period inspired, I am happy to help. I love taking inspiration from historical fashion plates and recreating them in a modern (sometimes more practical) way. I have sewn in many different eras.

Belles

Congratulations on being selected into this wonderful service organization. I have had the honor of working with many belles and would love to add you to the legacy. Each organization has specific guidelines, allowing for each individual to create a gown that is truly unique to them while maintaining a cohesive look. One of my favorite parts about my job is that I never design the same gown twice. You may look through my gallery (password upon request), google, pinterest, and instagram to get ideas and inspiration or you can come as a blank slate and I will help guide you through this exciting adventure. That being said, there are some things you can do to prepare for the design meeting!

Examples

• Inspiration pictures are always welcome! It is helpful to have picture examples to help explain what you want. So look at pinterest, past belles, and google to give you some ideas and bring them to the meeting.

• If you have no idea what you want that is completely fine too! Trust that I will make you something gorgeous and I will walk you through the design process.

• Undergarments-Please wear the bra you will wear with your dress. Sports bras affect the measurement process and changes the way the gown fits. So for the design meeting, it is important that I take measurements with the same or similar bra you will wear with your gown.

Items List

• HOOP

I can provide hoops at a discounted rate because I buy in bulk. If you want to order your hoop through me, let me know when you pay your deposit. I can advise you on the best hoop for your height but usually a 5 or 6 bone hoop is best. 

• DRESS

A dress for events and presentation. Some choose to have more than one and others choose to have one skirt and two tops. It all depends on your wants and needs. Accessories also help to change up your look as well as help your gown transition through the changing seasons. We can discuss options. I can make convertible gowns that change in different ways so that you can get more than one look out of one base gown. 

• PANTALETTES

One pair of pantalettes. These are the pant like undergarments worn under the dress. Usually white with lace. I make two types:

• Traditional- basic white pair with lace at the bottom and coordinating ribbon running through the trim. At least one pocket is recommended by Mrs. Marshall for keys and phone. 

• Heirloom- white pantalettes with accents reflecting the design of the gown. Monogrammed pockets with design accents from gown.  These are a great keepsake.

• PETTICOAT

A petticoat is a slip that goes over the hoop but under the skirt. It is necessary to keep the bones from the hoop from showing through the skirt. Not all gowns need this, so it will depend on design.

• Gloves

  Usually lace, I carry a few different styles of gloves. These can either be left plain or decorated.

• Hat

  Wide brim hats or specialty hats

•  EXTRAS

  • Belle bag-Each belle package comes with a garment bag that holds all of your pieces. That way you have one bag for everything and nothing gets lost!

  • cape-For the cold weather or just to change the look of your dress. There are capelets that go to the waist for a change of look or a full length cape for cold weather.

    
    
    
    

I understand that some belles are legacies and have gowns passed down. In this case I can do a redesign or take elements from the gown to use on a new gown. This is on a case by case basis due to the nature of the fabric and design, so its best to bring the gown with you when we meet.

I do live in the Tuscaloosa area but I make arrangements to be in Birmingham to meet with belles if I can schedule multiple belles in one day for the first meeting.The final fitting must be done at my home so that I can make any last minute adjustments if there are any to be made. Two meetings are included in my package estimate, any meetings beyond that are added to the invoice.