Choose your gown

RwaJo here, historical fashionista! Well, not really, but in another spot we were talking about which look we'd choose if we were going to a historical costume ball. Medieval, Tudor, Regency?

DonzellaornatapopHere's an image from Vecellio's book of Renaissance Costume, which contains images both interesting and alarming. Some, like this on the right, are imaginable. Some are odd. The one on the left, for example.

VCR071B I'm going to share some other images from different European periods. If you want to go Oriental or such, you're on your own.Which appeal to you, and why?

For example, if I was intending to dance and have fun at the ball I'd choose a more comfortable and manageable gown; perhaps even an early 20th century one. But for show I might go for more structured splendor.

It would be interesting to wear the stiff Tudor style — to see how it felt, and how it made me felt. Do you agree that clothes change us, especially how we move and how we feel about ourselves? Have you ever experienced that?

Which period costume do you think most flattering to women, and which the least?

So here are the pictures I've chosen to give a range. If you have links to others that you'd choose, please share them.

5deeppink G3231 Eleanor of Aquitaine, from illuminated MS Rest 1920r 1815septfull

Georgian, medieval, Restoration, 1920s, Regency.

Regency gowns in portraits look much more comfortable than in fashion plates. Here's only the upper part of one, but I think it's lovely.

Ladyinred

Then there's a Georgian I like for the varied and rich fabrics. You can also see that I like red!

Batonilady

Here's the stiffly formal Tudor, but in the pre-ruff period. I don't think I could bear a starched ruff!

  Tudor

And lastly, the crinolined Victorian.

Evsalon

 Some early 20th century gowns are gorgeous. This picture is from the splendid automobile museum in Malaga, Spain, where they match clothing to the cars. If you go to Malaga don't miss it. I didn't think I'd be interested in cars, but there are some magnificent machines there. Perhaps that pink number on the right, though the flowered one is interesting!

M6893ebt four 1920's dresses, M-car

And lastly, on the subject of gowns, here's a splendid wedding dress from Rivendell Bridal in Somerset and the cover I used it on, with permission, of course. There's more about Faery Weddings here.Lookflip

  Faerywedfinalsm

So, what will you wear to the ball? And why?

And would you like to see more historical romances written in the medieval, Tudor, Restoration and Victorian periods?

Jo

175 thoughts on “Choose your gown”

  1. The Georgian styles may not be the most comfortable, but I think they are very flattering, at least to women with an hourglass figure. The medieval style actually looks rather comfortable. But the dress on the cover of your book is the most gorgeous of all. Not for dancing but great for sweeping down the aisle.

    Reply
  2. The Georgian styles may not be the most comfortable, but I think they are very flattering, at least to women with an hourglass figure. The medieval style actually looks rather comfortable. But the dress on the cover of your book is the most gorgeous of all. Not for dancing but great for sweeping down the aisle.

    Reply
  3. The Georgian styles may not be the most comfortable, but I think they are very flattering, at least to women with an hourglass figure. The medieval style actually looks rather comfortable. But the dress on the cover of your book is the most gorgeous of all. Not for dancing but great for sweeping down the aisle.

    Reply
  4. The Georgian styles may not be the most comfortable, but I think they are very flattering, at least to women with an hourglass figure. The medieval style actually looks rather comfortable. But the dress on the cover of your book is the most gorgeous of all. Not for dancing but great for sweeping down the aisle.

    Reply
  5. The Georgian styles may not be the most comfortable, but I think they are very flattering, at least to women with an hourglass figure. The medieval style actually looks rather comfortable. But the dress on the cover of your book is the most gorgeous of all. Not for dancing but great for sweeping down the aisle.

    Reply
  6. Ooh so many beautiful gowns to choose from! I think I’d have to go with crinolined victorian white gown with red roses. So gorgeous! But I bet it would be supremely uncomfortable. I love reading Victorian romance as well. Thanks for the great post!

    Reply
  7. Ooh so many beautiful gowns to choose from! I think I’d have to go with crinolined victorian white gown with red roses. So gorgeous! But I bet it would be supremely uncomfortable. I love reading Victorian romance as well. Thanks for the great post!

    Reply
  8. Ooh so many beautiful gowns to choose from! I think I’d have to go with crinolined victorian white gown with red roses. So gorgeous! But I bet it would be supremely uncomfortable. I love reading Victorian romance as well. Thanks for the great post!

    Reply
  9. Ooh so many beautiful gowns to choose from! I think I’d have to go with crinolined victorian white gown with red roses. So gorgeous! But I bet it would be supremely uncomfortable. I love reading Victorian romance as well. Thanks for the great post!

    Reply
  10. Ooh so many beautiful gowns to choose from! I think I’d have to go with crinolined victorian white gown with red roses. So gorgeous! But I bet it would be supremely uncomfortable. I love reading Victorian romance as well. Thanks for the great post!

    Reply
  11. Fun, Jo! The medievals, being less structured, look pretty comfortable, and then it’s all downhill until the 20th century. *G* I’m with you on the pinkish Malaga gown–lovely!
    Here’s a great site that does all kinds of custom period and fantasy costume. (It’s where I got my wedding gown.)
    http://romanticthreads.com/

    Reply
  12. Fun, Jo! The medievals, being less structured, look pretty comfortable, and then it’s all downhill until the 20th century. *G* I’m with you on the pinkish Malaga gown–lovely!
    Here’s a great site that does all kinds of custom period and fantasy costume. (It’s where I got my wedding gown.)
    http://romanticthreads.com/

    Reply
  13. Fun, Jo! The medievals, being less structured, look pretty comfortable, and then it’s all downhill until the 20th century. *G* I’m with you on the pinkish Malaga gown–lovely!
    Here’s a great site that does all kinds of custom period and fantasy costume. (It’s where I got my wedding gown.)
    http://romanticthreads.com/

    Reply
  14. Fun, Jo! The medievals, being less structured, look pretty comfortable, and then it’s all downhill until the 20th century. *G* I’m with you on the pinkish Malaga gown–lovely!
    Here’s a great site that does all kinds of custom period and fantasy costume. (It’s where I got my wedding gown.)
    http://romanticthreads.com/

    Reply
  15. Fun, Jo! The medievals, being less structured, look pretty comfortable, and then it’s all downhill until the 20th century. *G* I’m with you on the pinkish Malaga gown–lovely!
    Here’s a great site that does all kinds of custom period and fantasy costume. (It’s where I got my wedding gown.)
    http://romanticthreads.com/

    Reply
  16. I’m with Sharon S. – Regency looks the most comfortable because there aren’t as may layers of underpinnings. Though that might make wearing them in cold weather very….chilly.
    The Victorian’s always seemed so rigid. I’ve been very thankful I didn’t live then and have to wear ALL those tight and heavy layers. Traveling in those outfits….oh my. Hoops…horrors….
    I frequently think about how horrific it must have been to be pioneers and have to wear lots of layers while crossing the plains, farming, etc. Or just living in Georgia with no AC. I especially think of that when I’m outside, sweating to death and all I’ve done is walk outside into the heat and humidity.
    So I definitely have a preference for Regency, Edwardian or 20’s era gowns.
    As for how different clothes make you feel – definitely, for sure! Even just wearing t-shirts, some make me feel different than others. Oddly enough I’ve been thinking about this aspect of clothing because I have a new swimsuit and this one has a little skirt on it. I feel totally different (in a very good way) in it than the tank style that I’ve been wearing for 35 plus years.

    Reply
  17. I’m with Sharon S. – Regency looks the most comfortable because there aren’t as may layers of underpinnings. Though that might make wearing them in cold weather very….chilly.
    The Victorian’s always seemed so rigid. I’ve been very thankful I didn’t live then and have to wear ALL those tight and heavy layers. Traveling in those outfits….oh my. Hoops…horrors….
    I frequently think about how horrific it must have been to be pioneers and have to wear lots of layers while crossing the plains, farming, etc. Or just living in Georgia with no AC. I especially think of that when I’m outside, sweating to death and all I’ve done is walk outside into the heat and humidity.
    So I definitely have a preference for Regency, Edwardian or 20’s era gowns.
    As for how different clothes make you feel – definitely, for sure! Even just wearing t-shirts, some make me feel different than others. Oddly enough I’ve been thinking about this aspect of clothing because I have a new swimsuit and this one has a little skirt on it. I feel totally different (in a very good way) in it than the tank style that I’ve been wearing for 35 plus years.

    Reply
  18. I’m with Sharon S. – Regency looks the most comfortable because there aren’t as may layers of underpinnings. Though that might make wearing them in cold weather very….chilly.
    The Victorian’s always seemed so rigid. I’ve been very thankful I didn’t live then and have to wear ALL those tight and heavy layers. Traveling in those outfits….oh my. Hoops…horrors….
    I frequently think about how horrific it must have been to be pioneers and have to wear lots of layers while crossing the plains, farming, etc. Or just living in Georgia with no AC. I especially think of that when I’m outside, sweating to death and all I’ve done is walk outside into the heat and humidity.
    So I definitely have a preference for Regency, Edwardian or 20’s era gowns.
    As for how different clothes make you feel – definitely, for sure! Even just wearing t-shirts, some make me feel different than others. Oddly enough I’ve been thinking about this aspect of clothing because I have a new swimsuit and this one has a little skirt on it. I feel totally different (in a very good way) in it than the tank style that I’ve been wearing for 35 plus years.

    Reply
  19. I’m with Sharon S. – Regency looks the most comfortable because there aren’t as may layers of underpinnings. Though that might make wearing them in cold weather very….chilly.
    The Victorian’s always seemed so rigid. I’ve been very thankful I didn’t live then and have to wear ALL those tight and heavy layers. Traveling in those outfits….oh my. Hoops…horrors….
    I frequently think about how horrific it must have been to be pioneers and have to wear lots of layers while crossing the plains, farming, etc. Or just living in Georgia with no AC. I especially think of that when I’m outside, sweating to death and all I’ve done is walk outside into the heat and humidity.
    So I definitely have a preference for Regency, Edwardian or 20’s era gowns.
    As for how different clothes make you feel – definitely, for sure! Even just wearing t-shirts, some make me feel different than others. Oddly enough I’ve been thinking about this aspect of clothing because I have a new swimsuit and this one has a little skirt on it. I feel totally different (in a very good way) in it than the tank style that I’ve been wearing for 35 plus years.

    Reply
  20. I’m with Sharon S. – Regency looks the most comfortable because there aren’t as may layers of underpinnings. Though that might make wearing them in cold weather very….chilly.
    The Victorian’s always seemed so rigid. I’ve been very thankful I didn’t live then and have to wear ALL those tight and heavy layers. Traveling in those outfits….oh my. Hoops…horrors….
    I frequently think about how horrific it must have been to be pioneers and have to wear lots of layers while crossing the plains, farming, etc. Or just living in Georgia with no AC. I especially think of that when I’m outside, sweating to death and all I’ve done is walk outside into the heat and humidity.
    So I definitely have a preference for Regency, Edwardian or 20’s era gowns.
    As for how different clothes make you feel – definitely, for sure! Even just wearing t-shirts, some make me feel different than others. Oddly enough I’ve been thinking about this aspect of clothing because I have a new swimsuit and this one has a little skirt on it. I feel totally different (in a very good way) in it than the tank style that I’ve been wearing for 35 plus years.

    Reply
  21. I love the Regency styles – especially in the summer. But I would have to say that Somerset Bridal gown is gorgeous. Of course, my dream gown has been and always be the gown Audrey Hepburn wore in MY FAIR LADY when she attended the ball.

    Reply
  22. I love the Regency styles – especially in the summer. But I would have to say that Somerset Bridal gown is gorgeous. Of course, my dream gown has been and always be the gown Audrey Hepburn wore in MY FAIR LADY when she attended the ball.

    Reply
  23. I love the Regency styles – especially in the summer. But I would have to say that Somerset Bridal gown is gorgeous. Of course, my dream gown has been and always be the gown Audrey Hepburn wore in MY FAIR LADY when she attended the ball.

    Reply
  24. I love the Regency styles – especially in the summer. But I would have to say that Somerset Bridal gown is gorgeous. Of course, my dream gown has been and always be the gown Audrey Hepburn wore in MY FAIR LADY when she attended the ball.

    Reply
  25. I love the Regency styles – especially in the summer. But I would have to say that Somerset Bridal gown is gorgeous. Of course, my dream gown has been and always be the gown Audrey Hepburn wore in MY FAIR LADY when she attended the ball.

    Reply
  26. As did many others, I choose Regency for comfort. The Victorian crinolines have a fantastic look, but they must have been uncomfortable and hard to manage. (The “New Look” crinoline of late 1940s, were much easier to handle, and I adored the feminine feel, but I cheered mentally when they went out of fashion, and I no longer had to cope.)
    But it’s not entirely about clothes, In 1943, before the war ended, we visited the home of a college friend of my parents. In her 1940 clothes (lots of cloth, rather military in cut) Gilmore pulled up her skirts and did the Charleston. It was So-o-o graceful, completely jazzy, and I could see the skimpy Charleston clothes.

    Reply
  27. As did many others, I choose Regency for comfort. The Victorian crinolines have a fantastic look, but they must have been uncomfortable and hard to manage. (The “New Look” crinoline of late 1940s, were much easier to handle, and I adored the feminine feel, but I cheered mentally when they went out of fashion, and I no longer had to cope.)
    But it’s not entirely about clothes, In 1943, before the war ended, we visited the home of a college friend of my parents. In her 1940 clothes (lots of cloth, rather military in cut) Gilmore pulled up her skirts and did the Charleston. It was So-o-o graceful, completely jazzy, and I could see the skimpy Charleston clothes.

    Reply
  28. As did many others, I choose Regency for comfort. The Victorian crinolines have a fantastic look, but they must have been uncomfortable and hard to manage. (The “New Look” crinoline of late 1940s, were much easier to handle, and I adored the feminine feel, but I cheered mentally when they went out of fashion, and I no longer had to cope.)
    But it’s not entirely about clothes, In 1943, before the war ended, we visited the home of a college friend of my parents. In her 1940 clothes (lots of cloth, rather military in cut) Gilmore pulled up her skirts and did the Charleston. It was So-o-o graceful, completely jazzy, and I could see the skimpy Charleston clothes.

    Reply
  29. As did many others, I choose Regency for comfort. The Victorian crinolines have a fantastic look, but they must have been uncomfortable and hard to manage. (The “New Look” crinoline of late 1940s, were much easier to handle, and I adored the feminine feel, but I cheered mentally when they went out of fashion, and I no longer had to cope.)
    But it’s not entirely about clothes, In 1943, before the war ended, we visited the home of a college friend of my parents. In her 1940 clothes (lots of cloth, rather military in cut) Gilmore pulled up her skirts and did the Charleston. It was So-o-o graceful, completely jazzy, and I could see the skimpy Charleston clothes.

    Reply
  30. As did many others, I choose Regency for comfort. The Victorian crinolines have a fantastic look, but they must have been uncomfortable and hard to manage. (The “New Look” crinoline of late 1940s, were much easier to handle, and I adored the feminine feel, but I cheered mentally when they went out of fashion, and I no longer had to cope.)
    But it’s not entirely about clothes, In 1943, before the war ended, we visited the home of a college friend of my parents. In her 1940 clothes (lots of cloth, rather military in cut) Gilmore pulled up her skirts and did the Charleston. It was So-o-o graceful, completely jazzy, and I could see the skimpy Charleston clothes.

    Reply
  31. This is a comment to all the authors. If you could include a photo of one of the dresses that the heroine wears at least the style if not the color.. that would help enormously in enjoying the story. Also with men I have so much difficulty conjuring up the image, even with the elaborately written descriptions of their attire.
    Please, please, please consider including a photo of both an outfit that a heroine and the hero of that time period would wear. It would help the readers tremendously.

    Reply
  32. This is a comment to all the authors. If you could include a photo of one of the dresses that the heroine wears at least the style if not the color.. that would help enormously in enjoying the story. Also with men I have so much difficulty conjuring up the image, even with the elaborately written descriptions of their attire.
    Please, please, please consider including a photo of both an outfit that a heroine and the hero of that time period would wear. It would help the readers tremendously.

    Reply
  33. This is a comment to all the authors. If you could include a photo of one of the dresses that the heroine wears at least the style if not the color.. that would help enormously in enjoying the story. Also with men I have so much difficulty conjuring up the image, even with the elaborately written descriptions of their attire.
    Please, please, please consider including a photo of both an outfit that a heroine and the hero of that time period would wear. It would help the readers tremendously.

    Reply
  34. This is a comment to all the authors. If you could include a photo of one of the dresses that the heroine wears at least the style if not the color.. that would help enormously in enjoying the story. Also with men I have so much difficulty conjuring up the image, even with the elaborately written descriptions of their attire.
    Please, please, please consider including a photo of both an outfit that a heroine and the hero of that time period would wear. It would help the readers tremendously.

    Reply
  35. This is a comment to all the authors. If you could include a photo of one of the dresses that the heroine wears at least the style if not the color.. that would help enormously in enjoying the story. Also with men I have so much difficulty conjuring up the image, even with the elaborately written descriptions of their attire.
    Please, please, please consider including a photo of both an outfit that a heroine and the hero of that time period would wear. It would help the readers tremendously.

    Reply
  36. Oh yes! That wedding gown is amazing! That cover of your FAERY WEDDINGS is gorgeous! That gown screams FAE! (I am a cover-a-Holic I have been known to buy a book just because I love the cover a time or two …(too many)
    As far as a favorite gown period…
    I never would have made it through the years having to be trussed up in a corset and layers and layers … I am hot in air conditioning! I’d have been one swooning miss for certain! Can’t imagine how these women did this day after day! If I happen to be thrown back in time it better be to a time of easy flowing gowns! But I love to LOOK at ALL eras of dress! There is something to love about each!

    Reply
  37. Oh yes! That wedding gown is amazing! That cover of your FAERY WEDDINGS is gorgeous! That gown screams FAE! (I am a cover-a-Holic I have been known to buy a book just because I love the cover a time or two …(too many)
    As far as a favorite gown period…
    I never would have made it through the years having to be trussed up in a corset and layers and layers … I am hot in air conditioning! I’d have been one swooning miss for certain! Can’t imagine how these women did this day after day! If I happen to be thrown back in time it better be to a time of easy flowing gowns! But I love to LOOK at ALL eras of dress! There is something to love about each!

    Reply
  38. Oh yes! That wedding gown is amazing! That cover of your FAERY WEDDINGS is gorgeous! That gown screams FAE! (I am a cover-a-Holic I have been known to buy a book just because I love the cover a time or two …(too many)
    As far as a favorite gown period…
    I never would have made it through the years having to be trussed up in a corset and layers and layers … I am hot in air conditioning! I’d have been one swooning miss for certain! Can’t imagine how these women did this day after day! If I happen to be thrown back in time it better be to a time of easy flowing gowns! But I love to LOOK at ALL eras of dress! There is something to love about each!

    Reply
  39. Oh yes! That wedding gown is amazing! That cover of your FAERY WEDDINGS is gorgeous! That gown screams FAE! (I am a cover-a-Holic I have been known to buy a book just because I love the cover a time or two …(too many)
    As far as a favorite gown period…
    I never would have made it through the years having to be trussed up in a corset and layers and layers … I am hot in air conditioning! I’d have been one swooning miss for certain! Can’t imagine how these women did this day after day! If I happen to be thrown back in time it better be to a time of easy flowing gowns! But I love to LOOK at ALL eras of dress! There is something to love about each!

    Reply
  40. Oh yes! That wedding gown is amazing! That cover of your FAERY WEDDINGS is gorgeous! That gown screams FAE! (I am a cover-a-Holic I have been known to buy a book just because I love the cover a time or two …(too many)
    As far as a favorite gown period…
    I never would have made it through the years having to be trussed up in a corset and layers and layers … I am hot in air conditioning! I’d have been one swooning miss for certain! Can’t imagine how these women did this day after day! If I happen to be thrown back in time it better be to a time of easy flowing gowns! But I love to LOOK at ALL eras of dress! There is something to love about each!

    Reply
  41. Dress me up like Phryne Fisher on the Australian tv show series, based on Kerry Greenwood’s fabulous mystery books all featuring Phryne. http://phrynefishersfrocks.tumblr.com/
    There’s been a traveling exhibition of the costumes made for the show that includes all the glittering hair combs, jewelry, hats, shoes and clothing worn. They are so cool !!

    Reply
  42. Dress me up like Phryne Fisher on the Australian tv show series, based on Kerry Greenwood’s fabulous mystery books all featuring Phryne. http://phrynefishersfrocks.tumblr.com/
    There’s been a traveling exhibition of the costumes made for the show that includes all the glittering hair combs, jewelry, hats, shoes and clothing worn. They are so cool !!

    Reply
  43. Dress me up like Phryne Fisher on the Australian tv show series, based on Kerry Greenwood’s fabulous mystery books all featuring Phryne. http://phrynefishersfrocks.tumblr.com/
    There’s been a traveling exhibition of the costumes made for the show that includes all the glittering hair combs, jewelry, hats, shoes and clothing worn. They are so cool !!

    Reply
  44. Dress me up like Phryne Fisher on the Australian tv show series, based on Kerry Greenwood’s fabulous mystery books all featuring Phryne. http://phrynefishersfrocks.tumblr.com/
    There’s been a traveling exhibition of the costumes made for the show that includes all the glittering hair combs, jewelry, hats, shoes and clothing worn. They are so cool !!

    Reply
  45. Dress me up like Phryne Fisher on the Australian tv show series, based on Kerry Greenwood’s fabulous mystery books all featuring Phryne. http://phrynefishersfrocks.tumblr.com/
    There’s been a traveling exhibition of the costumes made for the show that includes all the glittering hair combs, jewelry, hats, shoes and clothing worn. They are so cool !!

    Reply
  46. How true, Vicki, about pioneers, but I suppose they avoided sunburn and possible skin cancer! I wonder if they took siestas in the hottest part of the day as some Continental people do.

    Reply
  47. How true, Vicki, about pioneers, but I suppose they avoided sunburn and possible skin cancer! I wonder if they took siestas in the hottest part of the day as some Continental people do.

    Reply
  48. How true, Vicki, about pioneers, but I suppose they avoided sunburn and possible skin cancer! I wonder if they took siestas in the hottest part of the day as some Continental people do.

    Reply
  49. How true, Vicki, about pioneers, but I suppose they avoided sunburn and possible skin cancer! I wonder if they took siestas in the hottest part of the day as some Continental people do.

    Reply
  50. How true, Vicki, about pioneers, but I suppose they avoided sunburn and possible skin cancer! I wonder if they took siestas in the hottest part of the day as some Continental people do.

    Reply
  51. Some of the 1920s clothes could be a bit shapeless and dull, but when they went for silk and beading they were spectacular. Of course, they worked best for the less curvy figure, which some of us aren’t!

    Reply
  52. Some of the 1920s clothes could be a bit shapeless and dull, but when they went for silk and beading they were spectacular. Of course, they worked best for the less curvy figure, which some of us aren’t!

    Reply
  53. Some of the 1920s clothes could be a bit shapeless and dull, but when they went for silk and beading they were spectacular. Of course, they worked best for the less curvy figure, which some of us aren’t!

    Reply
  54. Some of the 1920s clothes could be a bit shapeless and dull, but when they went for silk and beading they were spectacular. Of course, they worked best for the less curvy figure, which some of us aren’t!

    Reply
  55. Some of the 1920s clothes could be a bit shapeless and dull, but when they went for silk and beading they were spectacular. Of course, they worked best for the less curvy figure, which some of us aren’t!

    Reply
  56. Sue, I love that you remember all that.
    Often there is a conflict between a “look” and comfort.
    It’s interesting to me how some generations go through drastic changes in clothing, as from 1905 to 1925. Or 1940s to 1960s

    Reply
  57. Sue, I love that you remember all that.
    Often there is a conflict between a “look” and comfort.
    It’s interesting to me how some generations go through drastic changes in clothing, as from 1905 to 1925. Or 1940s to 1960s

    Reply
  58. Sue, I love that you remember all that.
    Often there is a conflict between a “look” and comfort.
    It’s interesting to me how some generations go through drastic changes in clothing, as from 1905 to 1925. Or 1940s to 1960s

    Reply
  59. Sue, I love that you remember all that.
    Often there is a conflict between a “look” and comfort.
    It’s interesting to me how some generations go through drastic changes in clothing, as from 1905 to 1925. Or 1940s to 1960s

    Reply
  60. Sue, I love that you remember all that.
    Often there is a conflict between a “look” and comfort.
    It’s interesting to me how some generations go through drastic changes in clothing, as from 1905 to 1925. Or 1940s to 1960s

    Reply
  61. Very interesting, Prema. Are you saying in the book? I suppose authors could do that in e-books. Or would you like a link to web pages where you can see the sort of clothes the characters would be wearing?

    Reply
  62. Very interesting, Prema. Are you saying in the book? I suppose authors could do that in e-books. Or would you like a link to web pages where you can see the sort of clothes the characters would be wearing?

    Reply
  63. Very interesting, Prema. Are you saying in the book? I suppose authors could do that in e-books. Or would you like a link to web pages where you can see the sort of clothes the characters would be wearing?

    Reply
  64. Very interesting, Prema. Are you saying in the book? I suppose authors could do that in e-books. Or would you like a link to web pages where you can see the sort of clothes the characters would be wearing?

    Reply
  65. Very interesting, Prema. Are you saying in the book? I suppose authors could do that in e-books. Or would you like a link to web pages where you can see the sort of clothes the characters would be wearing?

    Reply
  66. I’m rather fond of Italian Renaissance fashions myself. They combine the sumptuous fabrics of the Tudor era with the comfort of Regency gowns (no surprise, since both styles are inspired by ancient Rome).

    Reply
  67. I’m rather fond of Italian Renaissance fashions myself. They combine the sumptuous fabrics of the Tudor era with the comfort of Regency gowns (no surprise, since both styles are inspired by ancient Rome).

    Reply
  68. I’m rather fond of Italian Renaissance fashions myself. They combine the sumptuous fabrics of the Tudor era with the comfort of Regency gowns (no surprise, since both styles are inspired by ancient Rome).

    Reply
  69. I’m rather fond of Italian Renaissance fashions myself. They combine the sumptuous fabrics of the Tudor era with the comfort of Regency gowns (no surprise, since both styles are inspired by ancient Rome).

    Reply
  70. I’m rather fond of Italian Renaissance fashions myself. They combine the sumptuous fabrics of the Tudor era with the comfort of Regency gowns (no surprise, since both styles are inspired by ancient Rome).

    Reply
  71. The medieval clothes look as if they would not only be the most comfortable but also the most adaptable to various temperatures. You could wear a linen shift and tunic in a hot climate, or bundle up in wools and furs in a northern winter.
    I’m not at all sure Regency garb would be all that comfortable, especially in one of those magnificent English country houses, with enormous rooms and ceilings 20 feet high and only a fireplace to take off the chill. There you would be in a graceful muslin dress, thin little slippers, wrapped in a beautiful silk shawl, suffering from chilblains. I can see where all those Victorian petticoats would look pretty appealing.
    For pure attractiveness, I’ve always thought the Restoration styles were hard to beat.

    Reply
  72. The medieval clothes look as if they would not only be the most comfortable but also the most adaptable to various temperatures. You could wear a linen shift and tunic in a hot climate, or bundle up in wools and furs in a northern winter.
    I’m not at all sure Regency garb would be all that comfortable, especially in one of those magnificent English country houses, with enormous rooms and ceilings 20 feet high and only a fireplace to take off the chill. There you would be in a graceful muslin dress, thin little slippers, wrapped in a beautiful silk shawl, suffering from chilblains. I can see where all those Victorian petticoats would look pretty appealing.
    For pure attractiveness, I’ve always thought the Restoration styles were hard to beat.

    Reply
  73. The medieval clothes look as if they would not only be the most comfortable but also the most adaptable to various temperatures. You could wear a linen shift and tunic in a hot climate, or bundle up in wools and furs in a northern winter.
    I’m not at all sure Regency garb would be all that comfortable, especially in one of those magnificent English country houses, with enormous rooms and ceilings 20 feet high and only a fireplace to take off the chill. There you would be in a graceful muslin dress, thin little slippers, wrapped in a beautiful silk shawl, suffering from chilblains. I can see where all those Victorian petticoats would look pretty appealing.
    For pure attractiveness, I’ve always thought the Restoration styles were hard to beat.

    Reply
  74. The medieval clothes look as if they would not only be the most comfortable but also the most adaptable to various temperatures. You could wear a linen shift and tunic in a hot climate, or bundle up in wools and furs in a northern winter.
    I’m not at all sure Regency garb would be all that comfortable, especially in one of those magnificent English country houses, with enormous rooms and ceilings 20 feet high and only a fireplace to take off the chill. There you would be in a graceful muslin dress, thin little slippers, wrapped in a beautiful silk shawl, suffering from chilblains. I can see where all those Victorian petticoats would look pretty appealing.
    For pure attractiveness, I’ve always thought the Restoration styles were hard to beat.

    Reply
  75. The medieval clothes look as if they would not only be the most comfortable but also the most adaptable to various temperatures. You could wear a linen shift and tunic in a hot climate, or bundle up in wools and furs in a northern winter.
    I’m not at all sure Regency garb would be all that comfortable, especially in one of those magnificent English country houses, with enormous rooms and ceilings 20 feet high and only a fireplace to take off the chill. There you would be in a graceful muslin dress, thin little slippers, wrapped in a beautiful silk shawl, suffering from chilblains. I can see where all those Victorian petticoats would look pretty appealing.
    For pure attractiveness, I’ve always thought the Restoration styles were hard to beat.

    Reply
  76. Jo, I remember one author (I’d like to say it was Anne Gracie, but I’m not positive) once posted a photo of her concept board, with all its photos of visuals that had inspired her (maybe it was Colin Firth? 🙂 and details of landscapes, houses, furniture, weapons, maps, clothing and whatnot that had figured in her novel in some way. I found it fascinating, and it did augment the tale to have some accurate visuals. People who have webpages could do that for their books.

    Reply
  77. Jo, I remember one author (I’d like to say it was Anne Gracie, but I’m not positive) once posted a photo of her concept board, with all its photos of visuals that had inspired her (maybe it was Colin Firth? 🙂 and details of landscapes, houses, furniture, weapons, maps, clothing and whatnot that had figured in her novel in some way. I found it fascinating, and it did augment the tale to have some accurate visuals. People who have webpages could do that for their books.

    Reply
  78. Jo, I remember one author (I’d like to say it was Anne Gracie, but I’m not positive) once posted a photo of her concept board, with all its photos of visuals that had inspired her (maybe it was Colin Firth? 🙂 and details of landscapes, houses, furniture, weapons, maps, clothing and whatnot that had figured in her novel in some way. I found it fascinating, and it did augment the tale to have some accurate visuals. People who have webpages could do that for their books.

    Reply
  79. Jo, I remember one author (I’d like to say it was Anne Gracie, but I’m not positive) once posted a photo of her concept board, with all its photos of visuals that had inspired her (maybe it was Colin Firth? 🙂 and details of landscapes, houses, furniture, weapons, maps, clothing and whatnot that had figured in her novel in some way. I found it fascinating, and it did augment the tale to have some accurate visuals. People who have webpages could do that for their books.

    Reply
  80. Jo, I remember one author (I’d like to say it was Anne Gracie, but I’m not positive) once posted a photo of her concept board, with all its photos of visuals that had inspired her (maybe it was Colin Firth? 🙂 and details of landscapes, houses, furniture, weapons, maps, clothing and whatnot that had figured in her novel in some way. I found it fascinating, and it did augment the tale to have some accurate visuals. People who have webpages could do that for their books.

    Reply
  81. It was me, Janice and I posted a few of my “story collages.” I can’t do that with all the stories, though because some give away plot points. I haven’t done a story collage for every book, either.
    But I often do include a scenes and places kind of page on my website. I’m updating my website, however and some of those pages will have to go — they don’t fit the style that’s necessary for tablets and smart phone viewing — which is pretty much required for websites these days.
    Some authors have pages on Pinterest. I collect costumes there, but they’re not necessarily organized by book or even relating to any particular books

    Reply
  82. It was me, Janice and I posted a few of my “story collages.” I can’t do that with all the stories, though because some give away plot points. I haven’t done a story collage for every book, either.
    But I often do include a scenes and places kind of page on my website. I’m updating my website, however and some of those pages will have to go — they don’t fit the style that’s necessary for tablets and smart phone viewing — which is pretty much required for websites these days.
    Some authors have pages on Pinterest. I collect costumes there, but they’re not necessarily organized by book or even relating to any particular books

    Reply
  83. It was me, Janice and I posted a few of my “story collages.” I can’t do that with all the stories, though because some give away plot points. I haven’t done a story collage for every book, either.
    But I often do include a scenes and places kind of page on my website. I’m updating my website, however and some of those pages will have to go — they don’t fit the style that’s necessary for tablets and smart phone viewing — which is pretty much required for websites these days.
    Some authors have pages on Pinterest. I collect costumes there, but they’re not necessarily organized by book or even relating to any particular books

    Reply
  84. It was me, Janice and I posted a few of my “story collages.” I can’t do that with all the stories, though because some give away plot points. I haven’t done a story collage for every book, either.
    But I often do include a scenes and places kind of page on my website. I’m updating my website, however and some of those pages will have to go — they don’t fit the style that’s necessary for tablets and smart phone viewing — which is pretty much required for websites these days.
    Some authors have pages on Pinterest. I collect costumes there, but they’re not necessarily organized by book or even relating to any particular books

    Reply
  85. It was me, Janice and I posted a few of my “story collages.” I can’t do that with all the stories, though because some give away plot points. I haven’t done a story collage for every book, either.
    But I often do include a scenes and places kind of page on my website. I’m updating my website, however and some of those pages will have to go — they don’t fit the style that’s necessary for tablets and smart phone viewing — which is pretty much required for websites these days.
    Some authors have pages on Pinterest. I collect costumes there, but they’re not necessarily organized by book or even relating to any particular books

    Reply
  86. Jo, I mean in the book itself. That way we can have a clear idea of how the characters looked. Especially when he have scenes of a ball or assembly where everyone is dressed to the nines! I do look at the web sites with clothes of the era but nothing to make it fresher with a photo or even a pencil drawing like the one you included in the story. It would be easy to include them in e-books.

    Reply
  87. Jo, I mean in the book itself. That way we can have a clear idea of how the characters looked. Especially when he have scenes of a ball or assembly where everyone is dressed to the nines! I do look at the web sites with clothes of the era but nothing to make it fresher with a photo or even a pencil drawing like the one you included in the story. It would be easy to include them in e-books.

    Reply
  88. Jo, I mean in the book itself. That way we can have a clear idea of how the characters looked. Especially when he have scenes of a ball or assembly where everyone is dressed to the nines! I do look at the web sites with clothes of the era but nothing to make it fresher with a photo or even a pencil drawing like the one you included in the story. It would be easy to include them in e-books.

    Reply
  89. Jo, I mean in the book itself. That way we can have a clear idea of how the characters looked. Especially when he have scenes of a ball or assembly where everyone is dressed to the nines! I do look at the web sites with clothes of the era but nothing to make it fresher with a photo or even a pencil drawing like the one you included in the story. It would be easy to include them in e-books.

    Reply
  90. Jo, I mean in the book itself. That way we can have a clear idea of how the characters looked. Especially when he have scenes of a ball or assembly where everyone is dressed to the nines! I do look at the web sites with clothes of the era but nothing to make it fresher with a photo or even a pencil drawing like the one you included in the story. It would be easy to include them in e-books.

    Reply
  91. I would have to go with Medieval or Tudor because those are my eras, but it would be fun to play with all the others for variety.

    Reply
  92. I would have to go with Medieval or Tudor because those are my eras, but it would be fun to play with all the others for variety.

    Reply
  93. I would have to go with Medieval or Tudor because those are my eras, but it would be fun to play with all the others for variety.

    Reply
  94. I would have to go with Medieval or Tudor because those are my eras, but it would be fun to play with all the others for variety.

    Reply
  95. I would have to go with Medieval or Tudor because those are my eras, but it would be fun to play with all the others for variety.

    Reply
  96. If I were going to a costume party, Georgian all the way. For comfort. regency, even though I think they always look like maternity dresses. The wedding gown is beautiful!

    Reply
  97. If I were going to a costume party, Georgian all the way. For comfort. regency, even though I think they always look like maternity dresses. The wedding gown is beautiful!

    Reply
  98. If I were going to a costume party, Georgian all the way. For comfort. regency, even though I think they always look like maternity dresses. The wedding gown is beautiful!

    Reply
  99. If I were going to a costume party, Georgian all the way. For comfort. regency, even though I think they always look like maternity dresses. The wedding gown is beautiful!

    Reply
  100. If I were going to a costume party, Georgian all the way. For comfort. regency, even though I think they always look like maternity dresses. The wedding gown is beautiful!

    Reply
  101. Yes, Lillian, medieval would be adaptable. Just put on more layers, some of them fur if necessary! Regency ladies did have winter clothes, with extra petticoats, long sleeves, spencers and shawls. I suppose at a winter ball, all the people and the dancing would keep them warm!

    Reply
  102. Yes, Lillian, medieval would be adaptable. Just put on more layers, some of them fur if necessary! Regency ladies did have winter clothes, with extra petticoats, long sleeves, spencers and shawls. I suppose at a winter ball, all the people and the dancing would keep them warm!

    Reply
  103. Yes, Lillian, medieval would be adaptable. Just put on more layers, some of them fur if necessary! Regency ladies did have winter clothes, with extra petticoats, long sleeves, spencers and shawls. I suppose at a winter ball, all the people and the dancing would keep them warm!

    Reply
  104. Yes, Lillian, medieval would be adaptable. Just put on more layers, some of them fur if necessary! Regency ladies did have winter clothes, with extra petticoats, long sleeves, spencers and shawls. I suppose at a winter ball, all the people and the dancing would keep them warm!

    Reply
  105. Yes, Lillian, medieval would be adaptable. Just put on more layers, some of them fur if necessary! Regency ladies did have winter clothes, with extra petticoats, long sleeves, spencers and shawls. I suppose at a winter ball, all the people and the dancing would keep them warm!

    Reply
  106. I agree, Janice. Georgian for show-off. I’m not sure how much more comfortable Regency would be, because as I said above, they had corsets underneath and the cut of the shoulders could be quite tight.

    Reply
  107. I agree, Janice. Georgian for show-off. I’m not sure how much more comfortable Regency would be, because as I said above, they had corsets underneath and the cut of the shoulders could be quite tight.

    Reply
  108. I agree, Janice. Georgian for show-off. I’m not sure how much more comfortable Regency would be, because as I said above, they had corsets underneath and the cut of the shoulders could be quite tight.

    Reply
  109. I agree, Janice. Georgian for show-off. I’m not sure how much more comfortable Regency would be, because as I said above, they had corsets underneath and the cut of the shoulders could be quite tight.

    Reply
  110. I agree, Janice. Georgian for show-off. I’m not sure how much more comfortable Regency would be, because as I said above, they had corsets underneath and the cut of the shoulders could be quite tight.

    Reply
  111. I’m one of the unfortunates with different sizes on my top and bottom; when I’m thin, I’m 2 sizes off. I always yearned for Regency clothes — tight fitting on the top, looser on the bottom. Any age in which one got clothes from a dressmaker, rather than the “standard” store sizes, would help me out. I made myself a Renaissance costume which included a “bum roll” to hold the skirt away from the body, but I didn’t have to stuff it much 😉

    Reply
  112. I’m one of the unfortunates with different sizes on my top and bottom; when I’m thin, I’m 2 sizes off. I always yearned for Regency clothes — tight fitting on the top, looser on the bottom. Any age in which one got clothes from a dressmaker, rather than the “standard” store sizes, would help me out. I made myself a Renaissance costume which included a “bum roll” to hold the skirt away from the body, but I didn’t have to stuff it much 😉

    Reply
  113. I’m one of the unfortunates with different sizes on my top and bottom; when I’m thin, I’m 2 sizes off. I always yearned for Regency clothes — tight fitting on the top, looser on the bottom. Any age in which one got clothes from a dressmaker, rather than the “standard” store sizes, would help me out. I made myself a Renaissance costume which included a “bum roll” to hold the skirt away from the body, but I didn’t have to stuff it much 😉

    Reply
  114. I’m one of the unfortunates with different sizes on my top and bottom; when I’m thin, I’m 2 sizes off. I always yearned for Regency clothes — tight fitting on the top, looser on the bottom. Any age in which one got clothes from a dressmaker, rather than the “standard” store sizes, would help me out. I made myself a Renaissance costume which included a “bum roll” to hold the skirt away from the body, but I didn’t have to stuff it much 😉

    Reply
  115. I’m one of the unfortunates with different sizes on my top and bottom; when I’m thin, I’m 2 sizes off. I always yearned for Regency clothes — tight fitting on the top, looser on the bottom. Any age in which one got clothes from a dressmaker, rather than the “standard” store sizes, would help me out. I made myself a Renaissance costume which included a “bum roll” to hold the skirt away from the body, but I didn’t have to stuff it much 😉

    Reply

Leave a Comment