Fashions of the Gilded Age is a rich pattern source for those who create period costumes for theater, film, living history, reenactment, bridal wear, or dolls. It's a valuable identification and dating tool for costume historians and vintage clothing collectors. The 184 patterns and 598 illustrations in Volume 2 are drawn from numerous rare original sources. Each pattern is accompanied by practical instructions, and often by an exquisite fashion plate. Most pattern components, such as bodices and overskirts, can be exchanged with those of other patterns. The patterns can be enlarged by several different methods, depending on the source. Clear, step-by-step instructions are given for each method. Extensive quotes from fashion magazines and etiquette manuals provide in-depth information on construction, materials, trimmings, and wardrobe planning. Volume 2 includes a substantial manual on 1870s and 1880s dressmaking and millinery, created especially for this book.
