Fashion Friday—Winter in March!
Ordinarily when we present Godey’s Lady’s Book in this series we use an issue which corresponds to our current month but seeing as here in Wisconsin our March still feels like January we thought that the January 1855 issue would be suitable.
In that vain, you will find recommendations for ladies’ outerwear. For those seeking a practical cloak, Godey’s illustrates the Sevastopol. If you prefer to don the most current fashions while strolling through wintery gardens arm-in-arm with a dapper gent, we assure you that the Empress Pardessus is “all the rage in Paris”!
This issue also includes many tips and tricks for creating and adorning your novelties whether your caps, under-sleeves, or chemisettes. Godey’s advises that a Fauchon is useful in creating both breakfast and dress caps (don’t confuse the two, if you are unsure which you need please come to our department to read some of these issues more carefully!). And, a dress cap in addition to being a silky, attractive decoration is also useful in hiding thinning hair.
New this issue are 2 options and patterns for work bags!
Blue Velvet Work Bag: adorned with leaves of white velvet or satin, and bordered with a narrow gold braid. Use gold thread to apply the tendrils and grapes. The handle should be a gold and blue cord.
Sanspareil Work-Bag: medallion center with embroidered netting.
View more fashion tips from Godey’s Lady’s Book.
View more Fashion Friday posts.
– Katie, Special Collection Graduate Intern
