Any sixth grader should know their fabrics weren't dull. I bet she doesn't know that men were the fashion plates of that day with their wigs, lace shirts and padded leggings to make them look sexy.
I expect this was a subject which had not always been of interest to her and as with many people, who begin to study a subject, she had preconceived ideas about it. I applaud her honesty in admitting she had been mistaken and her pursuit of authenticity.
My first reenacting dress for WbtS had serious authenticity issues, further study on my part and the guidance of an excellent, well researched, pricey, seamstress have improved my impression greatly. I can pass the test of the stitch counters at any event.
I’ve been a member of the DAR since I was 18 and am not an expert on every aspect of the Colonial era. ;)
Any sixth grader should know their fabrics weren't dull. I bet she doesn't know that men were the fashion plates of that day with their wigs, lace shirts and padded leggings to make them look sexy.
What does WbtS stand for?
My step-daughter is in the United Daughters of the Confederacy as is her mother, and getting involved in enactments. I like the costumes myself but I don’t know if I have the time and energy to hand-sew costumes like that.
Those dresses look like evening wear - I think women’s day dresses weren’t so low cut, didn’t have as much detail and were made from wool or linen - more like the travelling dress shown in the second photo.