This is a short two layer cape ensemble. Very simple
in design. The velvet I used is a shine velvet. I don't know for sure
if this type of velvet existed but the effect could be made with silk velvet and
a iron. I trimmed it with yellow velvet ribbon. This type of cape would be worn
for a fancy evening or night on the town. The ridicule is a simple drawstring
bag with tassle on the bottom. |
The bonnet would be worn with a elaborate hairstyle. This type would be worn back
further on the head. Little bits of ribbon were saved for just such a hat. Ostrich
feathers were used as well as other exotic bird feathers and were prized by
upper class women. |
A lady would never be caught with a suntan. Lily white skin was a symbol of the refined
set. Parasols kept the sun off your face. Ladies did not carry umbrellas,
those were for men and rainy days. The parasol was small in comparison. Many
times the parasol would be decorated with fringe and lace work. This one was made
from a purchased parasol. I hand sewed fringe to the lower edge and used the
corners from cotton napkins to make the top two layers. The napkins had embroidered
corners. I keep a piece of ribbon on the handle to tie the parasol up when
not in use. |
I love to make hats and my son loves to have his picture
taken. This is a straw hat with green ribbon and peacock eye feathers and bundles
of the feather bits along the shaft of the eye feather. This style would work
for the Civil War era as well as most others up to the 1940's. |
This bonnet started as a woven hat I bought at Walmart. I traced around the brim
for a pattern piece and measured the crown to cut a circle and had gathered it
under the ribbon trim. It has a curtain at the back. It kept the neck covered for
modesty and protection from the sun. The bow does not tie. One end slides in
the middle loop so even if the bow loosens it still looks tied. Whatever you do,
if you wear this style of hat, please don't put it on like a baseball hat. The
crown should be far back on the head. Remember the ladies who wore these had
lots of hair at the back. |
Another straw hat with peacock feathers. The hat pin has vintage glass beads. Mom
made it for me in about 3 minutes. |