Patterns of Fashion 2: Englishwomen's Dresses and Their Construction C.1860-1940

Patterns of Fashion #2

by Janet Arnold

Dresses and their construction from 1860 to 1940.

Includes line drawings, reproductions of historic magazines and books, descriptions of the fabrics used to make the chosen garments and, finally patterns to make the garments that have been updated to fit the modern silhouette.

Genres: Fashion, Sewing, Nonfiction, History, Reference, Fashion History, Historical Sewing

88 pages, Paperback

First published June 1, 1977

About the author

Janet Arnold (6 October 1932 – 2 November 1998) was a British clothing historian, costume designer, teacher, conservator, and author. She is best known for her series of works called Patterns of Fashion, which included accurate scale sewing patterns, used by museums and theatres alike. She went on to write A Handbook of Costume, a book on the primary sources on costume study, and Queen Elizabeth's Wardrobe Unlock'd, as well as many other books.

Arnold was awarded the inaugural Sam Wanamaker Award in 1998. After her death, the Society of Antiquaries of London who had previously made her a fellow, created a grant in her name, as did The Costume Society, which she helped to found.

Reviews

[Alex Bright · Rating 5 out of 5]

I will absolutely be using this book to draft patterns in the future!

[Jane Davis · Rating 5 out of 5]

I copied one of the 1890's designs for a Victorian Days celebration but in cotton and not taffata and velvet. Someone remarked that I "looked real". No substitute for authentic style and cut.

[Margie · Rating 5 out of 5]

The amount of detail Arnold is able to get into a line drawing is astounding. 1/8 scale patterns and line drawings of dresses from the Victoria and Albert, the London Museum, and the Museum of Costume. Line drawings capture not only several views of the dresses, but also extreme detail of the interiors, showing construction, stitching, and closures.

[Sarah Hemmingson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Not for the faint of heart or beginners, Arnold's book is a treasure trove of gowns and patterns. Just amazing.

[Becky · Rating 5 out of 5]

It is going to be reprint in the summer of 2022 but until then the only way I will be getting this book is if I sell off every single one of my organs. I saw one listed at over $1,000.

Edit: The release date now shows Autumn 2022.

[aslbk · Rating 5 out of 5]

Calling all Victorian and Edwardian fashion enthusiasts! Patterns of Fashion 2 delves into the exquisite details and intricate construction techniques of these iconic eras. Janet Arnold provides a wealth of knowledge, including authentic patterns, insightful drawings, and historical context, to inspire your next historical dressmaking project.

[Emily Donnelly · Rating 5 out of 5]

An amazing resource, I hope to eventually recreate patterns from these books when I learn how to grade a pattern.

[Allison6876 · Rating 5 out of 5]

if you are serious about historical sewing this is a must have

[Nest Harper · Rating 5 out of 5]

My favourite of all of the PoF books, closely followed by the third!

[Emma · Rating 4 out of 5]

A wonderful and comprehensive resource for historians and sewists alike.

[Amber · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a great reference.

[Multisun]

Patterns of Fashion 2: Englishwomen's Dresses & Their Construction C. 1860-1940

[Kathely · Rating 4 out of 5]

EXCELLENT RESOURCE!!!!

[Clara Brown · Rating 5 out of 5]

LOVED IT! It was so helpful for the 1860's dress I was making for Art A2!!!

[Powder River Rose · Rating 4 out of 5]

Good for historical use. Read often.

[Kayley · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a great book of patterns. However, there is more information about making the patterns full scale in Arnold's "Patterns of Fashion 1".