Tips for Victorian Costumes

In the Victorian era, the costumes were quite elaborate and with corsets worn by women, could be very restrictive to movement. Fashion was influenced by both increased affluence and trade. Raw materials poured into the British market and new synthetic dyes created a colour explosion. Most dresses were elaborately hand sewn with rich fabrics. While you can make your own costume from sewing patterns, you may not have the time or inclination and there are plenty of ready-made outfits available. Most of the colours used were deep. Remember there was no dry cleaning then and many fabrics were not washable like those today. So deep colours, like purples, and deep blues and pinks were used. They were enhanced with fine embroidery using pearls and beads and elaborate gathering. Many of the original clothes of the Victorian era were made of heavy wools, cottons, and silks. This type of heavy clothing is very useful in the colder weather. When choosing a costume, or having one made, the type and quality of fabric must be taken into account.

Dress colours typically were royal purples, deep blues, and vibrant pinks. They were enhanced with fine embroidery using pearls and beads and elaborate gathering. The fabrics used by the Victorians were heavy woollen or cotton cloths, with lighter silks for warmer weather. Men and women alike found them either warming, or broiling depending on the weather and the temperature.

When choosing a costume, or having one made, the type and quality of fabric must be taken into account. For a woman's Victorian costume, the undergarments are essential. A corset was an essential item for a Victorian woman and was laced tightly, to nip in the waist. The corset should be worn over a simple white cotton under-dress that reaches your thighs. The early Victorian era saw hooped dresses and frilly leggings, where the lace showed beneath the bottom of the dress. Choose stockings made from natural materials. White and black were the most commonly used colours but over time Victorian women chose a wider variety of colours to match their outer dress.

The fashion for women during the Victorian Age consisted of stunning gowns that were made to have sloping and narrow shoulders along with pointed waists, finished off with skirts that almost represent the shape of a bell. Women's waists were corseted to an almost unbelievable size, causing many women to faint or at least to be unable to move freely. Bustles were also in fashion for part of this era. Because the Victorian style dresses did change a bit over the years, there are different pieces that you can choose from to pull off your look.

Tea Gowns are a more informal but just as authentic type of dress from the Victorian era. They were not worn, generally, with corsets and so are less restrictive.

For a man, there are also great Victorian costumes to choose from. The iconic men's costume for that era is of a calf-length coat, with a top hat. Men's waistcoats were their source of individuality, with some lovely colours and embroidery available.

Children's outfits are also available in a wide range of authentic styles, from ragamuffins and urchins to Little Lord Fauntleroy and young ladies of nobility.

Instead of purchasing an outfit, you may prefer to hire one locally. If you are going out as a couple, you can be certain that the Victorian era is just right for a look that will turn heads whenever the two of you walk into a room in full garb.

Costumes are an integral part of attending the Victorian Street Fair held locally http://victorianstreetfair.com/ and you may also enjoy sourcing Victorian Costumes at http://victorianfancydress.com/ for your parties, events or children's educational activities.