Written and illustrated by Janet Arnold, PATTERNS OF FASHION 1 is dedicated to Englishwomen's dresses and their construction, c. 1660-1860. This unique book contains drawings and patterns taken from (48) original specimens. Examples include a bodice in ivory silk with two details from 1660-1665, a riding habit from 1730-1750, and a wedding dress in ivory silk from 1827-1829. --Additionally, Ms. Arnold brings the · Pattern cutting and dressmaking, c 1660-1860. A selection of extracts from contemporary sources. · A pictorial outline of Englishwomen's costume, c.1660-1860. · Drawings and patterns of Englishwomen's dresses, c. 1660-1860 taken from original specimens with details showing their construction · Additional material on the cut of early eighteenth-century dresses · Metric conversions · Using the patterns for full-scale work · List of selected books
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.
Very helpful and enjoyable book. The images were terrific and contained in-depth descriptions about each frock with advice on how to reproduce them. Highly recommended for all costumers!
Would 1000% recommend for anyone trying to sew the late fashions from 1660-1860s. With a bit of sewing knowledge already you would be able to recreate some beautiful pieces. They show you everything from hairstyles to even the stuff under dresses, coats and hats!