Diane d’Andouins by Etienne Dumonstier Earlier this year, when I was feverishly sewing for Colonial Williamsburg, I put together a quick test bodice in some russet velveteen. It was just to test…
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Spring Fever: Floral Shoes!
Okay, so maybe it blew a gale and was a bit nippy today, but on the whole it’s been quite lovely here in Nevada, which has put me in mind of gardening.…
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My Annual Sewing Rut
Once again, I have absolutely no motivation to make a single stitch of anything lately. I’ve learned that this is quite normal, and that if I force the issue I’ll regret it.…
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Please Vote: Newport Historical Society “Signature Shoe” Development Poll
I’m excited to announce that American Duchess and the Newport Historical Society are teaming up to re-create one of the gorgeous Edwardian shoes in their collection, a splendid satin and metallic brocade…
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A Few Snaps from Our 3rd Annual Titanic Tea
Last weekend was our local costuming club’s first event of the year – our 3rd Annual Titanic Memorial Tea – and what a nice kick-off to “the season” it was. Due to…
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American Duchess “Spring Cleaning” Sale
It’s time for a bit of a clear out, my dears. How about a sale? Gibsons in ivory, butterscotch, and black: http://www.american-duchess.com/shoes-1920s-1930s 23Skidoos in brown/white or white/white paintable spectators: http://www.american-duchess.com/shoes-1920s-1930s Black Pompadours: http://www.american-duchess.com/shoes-18th-century/pompadour-french-court-shoe-black Imperfects –…
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Celebrating Renoir – The Artist
In the Garden, 1885 I haven’t been doing much (any) sewing since I got back from Williamsburg, so I don’t have much (any) to show in that department. Instead I’d like to…
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Renoir & Tissot Pre-Order Now Open
Right, ladies, today’s the day. At long last, “Renoir” button boots and “Tissot” Victorian pumps are available to order at AmericanDuchess.com. The pre-order will run until April 27th. Delivery is around the…
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Coming Monday: “Renoir” and “Tissot” Civil War Boots and Slippers
It’s been forever and a day that we’ve been working on these two mid-19th century shoes, but finally I have “Renoir” button boots, and “Tissot” slippers for you! Both styles are accurate…
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Interview with Cathy Hay of Your Wardrobe Unlock’d, Foundations Revealed, and The Peacock Dress
Today’s interview is with another fabulous – and famous – historical costumers, Cathy Hay. Cathy is well-known for her amazing projects, such as the Peacock Dress, and also being the savvy business…
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More Highlights from Williamsburg and Jamestown
I was quite terrible (and busy) and didn’t take a lot of photos, but here are a few more from the trip… Day 1… Maggie and I arrived, dropped our stuff at…
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Shoes for Jamestown, and Williamsburg, and Whoopi Goldberg
I have some exciting news to share with you all! While I was in Williamsburg, I had a couple meetings with the costume departments of Colonial Williamsburg and Jamestown, both of which…
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Colonial Williamsburg 2014 – Highlight Reel
I’ve been away for *ages,* so sorry! Some things happened – some good, some bad – and of course I’ve been in Colonial Williamsburg for the past week and without time/computer/sleep enough…
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1740s Riding Habit Waistcoat and Shirt
It’s been a flurry of sewing madness here, getting ready for Colonial Williamsburg next week. I’ve ripped into a lot of garments, and made some pretty big changes to many – necklines…
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“Nankeen” Regency Boots Giveaway WINNER!
Wow, with over 1000 entries, it was tough competition for the “Nankeen” Regency boots giveaway. Alas, a winner was selected, at random, and that winner is… Olivia H. Congratulations! Now, I know…
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More On Nankeen Fabric and Boots in the Regency
Dames a la Mode, Lady’s Museum, 1804 There have been a few questions about Nankeen fabric and its uses in the Regency, so here’s a bit more information about it. Special thanks…
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Too Many Costumes, Not Enough Time!
Have you ever felt this way? I’ve been diligently working out the kinks in my 18th century wardrobe for Colonial Williamsburg, in two weeks (eek!), but as I near the end of…
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Nankeen Regency Boots Giveaway!
It’s time for another awesome giveaway for a pair of American Duchess shoes – this time it’s our “Nankeen” Regency Half-Boots -OR- Store Credit equivalent! Most of you are familiar with you…
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Introducing and Celebrating Nankeen Regency Boots
Today is the day for our latest historical shoe – “Nankeen” Regency Boots! Nankeen boots were an early 19th century fabric walking boots with adjustable lacing closure. Just like boots of old,…
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Re-Fit ALL the Things!
The Met, 1774-93 – Evidence of a gown let out to accommodate wide shoulders. As you all know, in our sewing journeys, no matter the years that have passed, things change. Our…
