1910S Fashion My Style

For many years I've been intrigued by the history and literature of the 1910s. A few years back I started sewing my own clothing from that decade as well, and there are many wonderful pattern companies right now that offer either original patterns or ones inspired by the Edwardian era. 

A blouse & skirt made from 1910s patterns.

I have used patterns from Past Patterns, Ageless Patterns, Wearing History Patterns & Fashion Archaeologist (all available online and/ or on Etsy). 

At first, when re-creating these 1910s clothing, it was very important to me to look just right, and I made myself a 1910s corset (two actually, one from a Truly Victorian pattern & one from Scroop patterns). 

The first over-bust corset I made from Truly Victorian patterns

 

My second under-bust corset made from Scroop Patterns

I discovered, however, that one of the things I liked about 1910s clothes, at least the ones I was making (simple dresses, skirts & blouses) was how versatile they were, and fun to pair with modern clothing. 

Wearing 1910s clothing with a corset

 

An original 1910s dress worn with my under-bust corset

While it is fun (and actually pretty comfortable) to wear everything authentically with corset and all, I really enjoy being able to wear my skirts and blouses with modern pieces of clothing - and modern underclothing. While a 1910s corset isn't uncomfortable, it is a little stiff, and not practical for everyday use. 

Wearing a 1910s skirt with a modern blouse & cardigan (and lovely hat knitted by my friend) 

Another example of a 1910s skirt with modern clothing & accessories. So comfortable and versatile! 

I guess the purpose of this post is just to say that while it is fun and exciting to do things properly & accurately, it's also nice to be able to use historical clothing everyday and to be able to enjoy it in a casual way, not just when dressing-up. There is no right way to do vintage/ historical clothing, and I'm glad I've found an enjoyable way to wear my 1910s clothing. 

Agatha Christie Blouse

I have long admired the style of Agatha Christie, especially when she was a young woman in the 1910s and ‘20s. After the delightful recent adaptation of ‘Howard’s End’, my resolve to have a smart striped Edwardian blouse increased.

The inspiration for my blouse. 

I bought a pattern from Past Patterns, found a lovely striped cotton and set to work.

A closeup of the collar, which was a bit tricky! 

I liked the pattern, but it was a little difficult, and I mis-read the directions for the pleat/ tuck that goes around the shoulder. But I liked the look of my mistake so kept it.

The Norwich area is full of gorgeous churches and it was a nice plus to explore them in my 1910s outfit. The skirt is an original, from around 1917. 

I made the belt with some vintage ribbon, and the neck-scarf is from Burnley & Trowbridge. 

It’s been a few months...

I hadn’t realized that nine months (!) has gone by since my last post. I have not been entirely idle, so this is one of a few catch-up posts to show what I’ve been up to. 

Rachel & me at her hen night/ bridal shower

In March, my dear friend Rachel was married. We met at church whilst we were both at uni, back in 2010, and though attending different universities, we became fast friends, and even shared a flat for three years. It was a wonderful opportunity to be able to travel to the U.K. in order to be there for her wedding. 

Before my trip, I made Rachel a temple dress. Rachel and I are both members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, and we have temple ceremonies, for which you wear a white dress. I didn’t feel up to making her wedding dress, but it was a delight to make her temple dress. 

I was terrified that it wouldn’t fit,  but luckily it did! 

What a huge relief!

Rachel’s wedding was a relaxed, quiet affair, and absolutely one of the best and most beautiful weddings I’ve ever been to! 

The bride and groom. So lovely!