A red regency cap

Fashion plate- original was red velvet

I've been wanting to make this outfit for a while but it was the hat that jumped out at me. It's the hat that particularly jumped out at me. I was looking for a regency cap that was easy to pack in a suitcase that wasn't just your standard regency turban and this fitted the bill.
It took a while to figure out the right shape. The original was in velvet but that wasn't an option so I used a nice wool mix I had some scraps left.

I cut out a triangle for the pointed part then realized it wasn't going to be big enough so made a larger band with a black cotton facing then attached to the open end of the triangle pleating it on one side to take out the ease and for decoration.

I added some leftover ribbon to the end for decoration. In the images the point is pinned in place but I intend to tack it in place once I've added any further trim which I'm just deciding on. I'll also be tacking some faux ringlets on the inside for instant perfect curls.

Updating an old dress -1780 to 1790s

This shows how much my skills have improved. I needed a 'georgian' dress so I dug out my old red one I made ages ago. I've never been happy with how it fitted but it was one of my first attempts at making up a pattern from patterns of fashion. Was meant to be circa 1780s in style. I removed the lace from the neckline and cuffs. Then took off the hook n eye which clearly was causing gaping.
Next thing I did was try it on over stays and pin the front tightly. Then chalked on where I needed to cut down the neckline and where I wanted the 'zone' front to be. Then I pinned along the lines.

You can see the boning is making the bodice sit oddly.

The blue line is where the neckline would be. The green where the contrast fabric panel needed to go.

This was the point where I removed the boning I had in the front of the bodice as it was throwing off the shape. I also unpicked the skirt for a couple of inches. I traced the shape of the front and then added a seam allowance.

 I appliqued the striped fabric on by hand. Tucking the fabric round the front of the bodice.

I then stitched the skirt back on further back. It can still be polonaised or as is.

In the meantime I made a striped petticoat to match the zone front. The only thing left is to sew the hook n eyes back on.

I've even made a matching hat. Currently debating whether to add a sash or not? What do you think?

wigs, the 60s and cosplay

I know I have been quiet for a while. Been a little busy but I wanted to fill you in on my latest project.
I blame reruns of Man from uncle (the TV series not the film). It's got me into that 1960s style.
I've been gathering together 60s sewing patterns and have been attempting to style a wig using heated rollers and a setting pattern found on pinterests.

Probably needs more backcombing for volume. But I'm hoping it's on the right track.
This little exercise is all in the name of cosplay. A femme version of a well known uncle agent.

I think the badge with number 2 on it might be a big clue.