Victorian & Edwardian Styles
Our Victorian and Edwardian designs capture eras of feminine elegance seldom equalled by other periods of fashion.
The early Victorian bustle era gave way to a reduced “bump” at the derriere as the new century approached. The inward curve of the Victorian abdomen gave way to the straight front of the Edwardian era, and gradually the rear “bump” diminished, giving a more practical slimmer shape.
Whilst retaining authentic features and many construction features, our bodice / skirt combinations and dresses feature modern improvements, making them more durable, comfortable and practical for the modern bride. Authentic underwear and corsetry is available for those who wish to completely re-create the period style.
Available styles include dresses and skirt / bodice/ blouse combinations, with or without jackets.
Victorian Wedding Ball Gown – Sample Dress
always better on a real person!
Victorian dressmaking featured a lot of hand finishing, click here for some detail finishing information,
Bound silk organza / Huboti bertha with silk flowers & bow. Lace applique and pearl buttons. Skirt back pleats
Fabrics and Materials
Where budgets permit, we always our dresses in the finest materials, which in most cases means those made from natural fibres. These materials “breathe” and are more comfortable to the skin. This dress is no exception and is constructed in various silk fabrics as follows:
Bodice: – Duchess silk satin with fully boned lining in the same material, reinforced with cotton coutil.
Silk organza “bertha,” and sleeves, lined with huboti silk, bound and finished with lace applique, silk organza flowers, satin details and fresh water pearls.
Skirt: – Duchess silk satin, interlined with silk organza and lined with silk taffeta. Optional period petticoats and underwear available.
Up Close Bodice Detail
Sizing
As Victorian size and proportion is different to ours these days, it is important that a correct fit is ensured. It would be unlikely that a modern girl would fit an original dress. This particular sample is made in a modern “14″ size proportions, rather than having a period corseted waist, that would have been 26″ to 28.”
Corsetry – your choice
There are many of us who would benefit from corsetry to achieve the right look under period clothing. It is not compulsory however! Our bodices are boned and are made in the style of the period, to offer support and to give a smooth waisted line. This alone may be all you need.
For those who wish to be totally authentic, or need a little help however, you can choose from our range of bespoke period or modern corsets that are comfortable and supportive, giving a snug fit or waist reduction if required. A “stand alone” corset could be chosen as an alternative to the bodice. Rear lacing, gives a high degree of adjustability that can be used to give a snug fit or tighter if required. They can also be loosened off!
Other Designs
We have photographs, drawings and original designs from this era, from which we can take inspiration in creating your individual dress or wedding ensemble. We can also co-ordinate your bridesmaids and groom details for a completely themed look. The possibilities are endless and only limited by your imagination.
To enquire about this or any of our dresses, please click HERE