Clothing in the 19th Century

Sewing machines were in use in the United States before the Civil War.   Singer, one of the major manufacturers at the time,  was the first company to introduce the idea of time-payments so that everyone could afford to buy one.  In 1862 one of the major sewing machine companies, Wheeler & Wilson, purchased a patent for machine-sewed button holes.  Click here to read more about sewing machines.

CIV004 Who Wore What
Juanita Leisch
This text provides invaluable information on the dress styles and designs of women's clothing in the 19th century.  A main source for reenactors.

CIV008 Dressed for the Photographer
Joan Severa
272 photographs arranged by decade show how men, women, and children dressed and styled their hair during the last half of the 19th century.  The authors descriptions give an insight into the social reasons for clothing choices. 

FEM082 80 Godey's Full-Color Fashion Plates 1838 - 1880
ed by JoAnne Olian
The plates -- each featuring several costumes -- depict a rich variety of Victorian garments

FEM069  Vintage Hats & Bonnets 1770-1970  
Susan Langley
Each chapter includes historical and Fashion overviews including information on materials, milliners, and designers. Hundreds of color photos of antique hats and bonnets are accentuated by vintage photos and rare fashion plates.  The hat has reflected not only the mood of its wearer, but the spirit of its time.  

FEM087    Dating Fabrics.  A Color Guide 1800-1960 
Eileen Jahnke Trestain
Textile appraisers and collectors of fabrics, quilts, and antiques can use this book to recognize, identify, and date vintage American fabrics as used in quilts and clothing. Over 1,000 color fabric swatches are shown in this handy, pocket-size reference guide. Simply match antique fabrics by selecting a time period and comparing colors and prints.

FEM049  Hands to the Spindle. Texas Women and Home Textile production, 1822 - 1880
P. Marks
Brings to life the day-to-day activities of 19th century Texas women.  Through the stories of real women and an overview of their crafts the reader is introduced to an art rarely practiced today

FEM011 Fashions and Costumes from Godey's Lady's Book
Blum
Over 400 striking fashion designs from rare issues of the most influential women's magazine of the period. Introduction and captions. 435 designs, 42 in full color.

FEM020 Victorian and Edwardian Fashion: A Photographic Survey
Gernsheim
First fashion history completely illustrated by contemporary photographs. Full text plus 235 photos, 1840-1914, in which many celebrities appear. 

FEM097   Thoughts on Men's Shirts
Thomas
Everything you need to know about making period shirts.