Patterns for Theatrical Costumes: Garments, Trims, and Accessories from Ancient Egypt to 1915

by Katherine Strand Holkeboer

Advice on making costumes accompanies designs for ancient Egyptian, Greek, Roman, Byzantine, Romanesque, medieval, Renaissance, Elizabethan, and Victorian style costumes.

Genres: Nonfiction, Sewing, Reference, Art, History, Live Action Roleplaying, Theatre

350 pages, Paperback

First published March 1, 1984

Reviews

[Margie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Rather than going into fine detail, this book covers basic shapes and basic pattern pieces for typical costumes of various eras between Ancient Egypt and 1915. For each era (e.g. Romanesque or Late 14th Century) a typical male costume and typical female costume are sketched, accompanied by simple 1/8-scale pattern pieces for each. Seam allowances aren't included, nor are instructions for how to make up the patterns. Each era is followed by three or four simple designs that are typical of the trims of that era. They could be used for stencils, or even just to give the costumer an idea of the type of decoration typical to the period. Notes on each costume are minimal yet relevant. We are told, for example, that the name for the tunic worn in the mid-12th century is a "bliaut" and that it was full but gathered at the hipline (for men) or by a corset at the waist (for women). There's definitely a focus on western civilization. There's a Chinese costume, a Samurai, and a Geisha, (as well as a lion and an elephant) at the end of the book in the "Specialty Costumes" section.

If you're looking for a general sense of what people might have worn during a broad era, this is an excellent reference. If you need detailed instructions or information about appropriate fabrics or closures, you'll want to look elsewhere.

[Phair · Rating 4 out of 5]

Good basic look at a wide range of periods for anyone doing amateur theatre costuming. Basic pattern shapes and variations for sleeves, etc are provided. Simple trim designs are shown for each period. Both men's and women's styles are covered with line drawings showing the look as worn. Specialty costume section includes religious, Asian and fantasy. Another brief section covers construction of headgear, crowns and very basic wigs.

[Nicole Westen · Rating 4 out of 5]

Could have used a bit more explanation for sewing together some of the sleeves. Renaissance sleeves got real weird. But overall pretty simple and solid. What was neat was that at the end of each historic 'section' there were a few examples of motifs that were popular in that time period, as a reference for trim and applique.

[Illyrika laufeyson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Quality costume patterns

[Catherine McLean · Rating 5 out of 5]

I sew and am making a costume. I found this book very helpful.

[Mrelia · Rating 4 out of 5]

I borrowed this book from the library for the Ancient Egyptian costume patterns in preparation for Halloween.I have since decided that I will be purchasing a copy of this book for my very own.

The patterns contained in this book are not highly detailed and assembly instructions are minimal. It is meant for use by people who have a good basic knowledge of sewing and tailoring. Beginners should look elsewhere.

But if you DO have a sewing background, you will enjoy having such a wonderful resource for costuming in a single volume!

[Tori · Rating 3 out of 5]

I think this book is a good starting point for beginning costumers. A beginner wants to re-create a certain silhouette without necessarily delving into the historical accuracy. For theatrical costumers, you just don't have the time for months of research.

Copying the patterns seems like it would be a tedious process without an opaque projector. And, like other reviewers have stated, a knowledge of fundamental sewing is assumed by the author.

I've used this book to help me figure out the pattern shapes for different sorts of hanging sleeves and I've found it quite helpful.

[Simone Vd stadt beaney · Rating 4 out of 5]

You need to be able to make a pattern from scratch if this book is going to be useful to you as the title may also imply. Great book for those with an interest in making period costume. Although this book could not have covered all the differences in style over the centuries, so for a more accurate dress style, more research might be necessary.

[Kathy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Good for its purpose - theatrical, rather than historical, patterns - and I think it's a good book to give folks very new to the SCA to get an idea of where to start.