Tuesday, May 13, 2008

How to dress for success in the 1880’s

The zipper was not invented until 1920. Alternate closures for costumes were buttons, ribbon ties, lace up, and hook and eye closures.

When looking for buttons, plastic was not available. Try to get plastic that looks like wood, metal, shell, or other materials that were available during the era you are portraying.

Dark glasses were worn by people who usually had syphilis or STD's. The reason for this is the sun hurt their eyes.

Gentlemen did not wear suspenders and a belt at the same time.

Not every cowboy was clean. If you came in off the trail you were dirty and dusty.

Not every cowboy wore a bandana or scarf or carried a gun when they came into town.

Clothing did not carry advertising on them. If you are wearing pants that show the label, take the time and cut it off.

Visit the thrift stores in your area. You can get clothing that with just a little alteration can work perfectly for costumes. My first saloon dress was a short black and blue lace prom dress that I bought for $6. I replaced the zipper with a hook and eye closure and added some fringe to the arms, worn with a black pair of stockings, feather in my hair and boots I looked the part.

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