Saturday, April 25, 2009

Frocking up... on paper, at least.

I don't watch much TV... but as the man of the house will tell you (as he rolls his eyes and heads out to his shed), I'll watch anything remotely resembling a costume drama. (Preferably BBC versions of classic literature, but that classification also includes Poirot). I love a good frock.... particularly a good historical one.

I've noticed that ALL the books I've bought recently (in the hope that I'll find time to read them) are about women in previous times. Seems I even like to READ about a good frock!

At the moment I'm particularly loving this book.

It's a biography of an 18th century girl who rose from utter poverty and obscurity to the height of fame and fortune - in a time when that sort of thing just didn't happen. She married into the aristocracy and eventually became Lord Nelson's mistress. A cracking read!


I'm also loving these books, which were left in my studio by my fashion-industry-sewing-buddy friend.
Ooh-ahhhh.... just LOOK at the detailing on the front of that jacket!

In the Vionnet book there are even details on the pattern construction and (quite possibly drool all over the..) photos of fabulous drapey gowns from the early 20th century.

I can feel my patternmaker's fingers beginning to itch....

Bag, hat and clothing patterns, anyone...?

10 comments:

Sandra @ Pepperberry & Co. said...

Ooh, what lovely vintage things you have. That book also sounds amazing!

Chrisy said...

huummmm that vionnet books looks absolutely scrummy!

Vicki said...

Today I say Easy Virtue at the Palace theatre in Balwyn. Beautiful costumes and English scenery. And Colin Firth. What more does a girl want?

Kylie said...

Your novel sounds like something I'd love... delicious, historical fiction. Have you tried anything by Diana Gabaldon? Touted as romance, but rather a great historical drama.

Cathy {tinniegirl} said...

What gorgeous vintage books. Such lovely classic designs.

Michelle said...

ohhhhhhhh..........
vintage dresses yes please........

Katy said...

ooo that dress looks beautiful :-)

Skribenten said...

Hello there. Just like you I LOVE to watch / read about historic dramas. I'm in love with the way british television, produce and film the wonderful stories we find in litterature. They allways do the costumes so perfekt. :-)

The book in the picture , I would try a find on Amazon. Thanks for the tip.

Hugs from Denmark
Henriette
http://defemibyen.blogspot.com/

Gay McDonell said...

Oh yeah! I'm waiting patiently for your clothing patterns!!!

Quilting Cafe said...

My husband is the same way...thanks for the heads up on the book