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

Rating:
Summary: This book helped me make a lovely dress...
Review: All of the patterns in this book were taken from existing garments, so they are very historically accurate. Details on fabric, trim, and construction are included--as well as what type of corset was worn with each (very important!). I used one of the patterns to make a 1870's dress and it turned out wonderful--I made mock-ups of the bodice first to ensure fit, and had to make a number of alterations. The grid scale is easy to use. Seam allowances and alternate sizing is not included, so if your figure is extremely dissimilar to the original wearer of the gown, you might have trouble. These books show a few specific examples in great detail, so you should use it with other broader resources for ideas for alterations, materials, and accessories.

Rating:
Summary: This book helped me make a lovely dress...
Review: All of the patterns in this book were taken from existing garments, so they are very historically accurate. Details on fabric, trim, and construction are included--as well as what type of corset was worn with each (very important!). I used one of the patterns to make a 1870's dress and it turned out wonderful--I made mock-ups of the bodice first to ensure fit, and had to make a number of alterations. The grid scale is easy to use. Seam allowances and alternate sizing is not included, so if your figure is extremely dissimilar to the original wearer of the gown, you might have trouble. These books show a few specific examples in great detail, so you should use it with other broader resources for ideas for alterations, materials, and accessories.

Rating:
Summary: A fantastic book--but not for beginners!
Review: I can't stress how great this book is (like her others!) the accuracy of the patterns and the detail that is given makes them wonderful. If you want to sew the clothing (and adjust the patterns to a fit, I don't recommend this book for beginners. It is for those who are experienced at the art of sewing. Otherwise, it's great to see how some of the effects were gotten. Some of the patterns also include methods of construction.... Wonderful!

Rating:
Summary: I have a love/hate relationship with Janet Arnold
Review: I know it is probably heresy to say this, but I can never decide whether or not to keep Arnold's books in my library. I love the fact that she gives you graphed patterns for historic clothing and her writing is clear and interesting. The projects are not for the beginning seamstress, but are clearly explained by the author. I guess I have a problem with some of the clothes she chooses to reproduce--not all the examples are good looking or typical of their period. The choices seem very esoteric; for some people that is probably part of their charm. If you find enough examples you like I would recommend the books, but you might want to take a look at them at the library first.

Rating:
Summary: Another winner from Janet Arnold!
Review: Janet Arnold's clear, precise illustrations of period garments are just as valuable as her detailed descriptions of materials used and garment construction techniques. This book is most helpful for students of Victorian and Edwardian fashion, particularly since the garments chosen for study are not extreme examples but ones well suited for the reenactor or living historian. The graphed patterns are easily enlarged with one-inch gridded paper, and the intermediate seamstress will have no trouble creating beautiful outfits.

Rating:
Summary: Patterns of Fashion
Review: This is a good book if you're looking for old fashions. It has precise patterns that look wonderful, and they will look great in plays or on Halloween. I recommend it.

Rating:
Summary: Great for the Reenactor
Review: This is a great way to have a historical dress without tearing a old garment apart. Easy to follow patterns and good directions.
A great book for any reenactor or anyone who wants to have history live again with a museum copy dress or gown.