History vs Media – Cleopatra Part II
by Kelsey Larsen | February 3, 2018 | Uncategorized | 0 Comments
That's right! There's more! There were so many costumes in Cleopatra that I felt I could not cover them all properly in one post. So far we've talked a lot about Cleopatra's gowns, but let's talk a little more about the Romans. Something very important to note was...
History vs Media: Cleopatra (1963)
by Kelsey Larsen | January 29, 2018 | Uncategorized | 0 Comments
The 1950’s and 1960’s were a golden age of cinema, home to some of the Western World’s most iconic classic films. They were known for their sweeping scenery, glamorous starlets, and elaborate costuming. Unfortunately, while the costumes were undoubtedly beautiful,...
These Laces are Tight – A History of the Corset
by Kelsey Larsen | January 23, 2018 | Uncategorized | 0 Comments
When it comes to historical costuming often the first garment that usually comes to mind is the corset. They have a surprisingly long history, appearing first in the early 1500’s and worn in continual use until the early 20th century. The term ‘corset’ did not come...
About Face – Cosmetics in Ancient Egypt
by Kelsey Larsen | January 5, 2018 | Uncategorized | 0 Comments
The art of cosmetics has a fascinating history. They have been used by many cultures throughout history, not just for beautification purposes, but for religion, ritual, and health purposes as well. This was particularly true in Ancient Egypt. Cosmetics...
History vs Media – Reign
by Kelsey Larsen | January 2, 2018 | Uncategorized | 0 Comments
I am a big fan of historically-based TV shows. The beautiful sets and sumptuous costuming make me want to immediately raid the nearest fabric store and get sewing. The more I learn about history and the reasons why people wore what they wore, the more I...
The House of Worth
by Kelsey Larsen | January 2, 2018 | Uncategorized | 0 Comments
Chanel, Dior, Balenciaga, Valentino, Versace -- There are some fashion houses whose names are synonymous with high-class style. In the late 1800’s, the top name in fashion was Worth. At its peak, the House of Worth was known globally as one of the most...
I’m Dyeing Here – A History of Textile Dyeing
by Kelsey Larsen | December 23, 2017 | Uncategorized | 0 Comments
The first recorded mention of fabric dyeing was in China in approximately 2600 BCE. Early dyes were made from plant fibres and natural pigments, mixed with water and oils, the same techniques that had once been used in prehistoric cave paintings. Dye colours varied by...
Fashion and Politics in Revolutionary-Era France
by Kelsey Larsen | December 8, 2017 | Uncategorized | 0 Comments
We’ve talked before about how fashion and politics often walk hand-in-hand. From the headdresses of the Tudor court to the zoot suit, a person’s clothing can say a lot about their ideas and affiliations. This was particularly true in Revolutionary-Era France. Before...
Every Girl’s Crazy ’bout a Sharp Dressed Man – A History of the Zoot Suit
by Kelsey Larsen | December 7, 2017 | Uncategorized | 0 Comments
The world of fashion has always been tied to politics, from dye colors denoting rank, to colorful rosettes that declare the wearers support of the Revolution, what a person wears can make a very loud statement about their political and social beliefs. The zoot suit...
Luxurious Lace
by Kelsey Larsen | November 26, 2017 | Uncategorized | 0 Comments
From sweet summer sundresses to the hottest runways of Paris, lace has been, and will always be, synonymous with style. There are several primary variations of lace, each using different techniques and capable of creating entirely different weights and looks. The best...