Becoming Jane Austen Costume Challenge

Becoming Jane Austen Costume Challenge

As many of you know I am a fan of period films. I love the storylines as well as studying the set design and costuming. They inspired me to create a Becoming Jane Austen Costume Challenge.

“Becoming Jane”

Two years ago I created a historically accurate depiction of a ladies’ 18th-century robe à la Française with period-appropriate accessories.

At the time several readers commented that they would like to see a Jane Austen-era gown in the future. I wholeheartedly supported this idea. It has taken me two years to thoroughly research this period.  I’ve looked at countless fashion plates from the era, viewed several websites, and read a few books.

A favorite activity was also rewatching some of my favorite films taking notes on fashion.

Pride and Prejudice

Emma

Sense and Sensibility

Regency Era

This style of clothing was popular in the Regency era of the United Kingdom. The term originated from the monarchy. King George III was a virtuous man who enjoyed living a simple life which included farming and rural living. However, by 1810 a genetic disorder had fully incapacitated the King. His illness was depicted in the film “The Madness of King George”. His son, the Prince Regent, stepped into power to rule in his father’s place. Thus, the period from 1810 to 1820 is known as England’s Regency period.

“Princess Charlotte Augusta of Wales” by Charlotte Jones, 1817

However, the style was also popular in France where it was known as the Empire period. Just after the French Revolution in 1789 Napoléon Bonaparte came into power and began his quest to expand the French Empire.

Napoléon’s wife, Joséphine de Beauharnais,  was depicted in “Josephine de France” by Firmin Massot, 1812.

At the same time, the United States was trying to establish itself as a new nation. Americans referred to the similar architectural and furniture styles as Federal Style. You can read about it HERE. But the style of fashion was still called Regency or Empire in the states.

I began a board on Pinterest to pin my favorite images.

“A Source of Admiration” by Edmund Blair Leighton (1852 -1922)

So I am setting out on yet another costuming adventure. As of yet, there has been no commitment from Mr. Décor to recreate Mr. Darcy’s lake scene.

Just like the last time I am setting a very low budget. I have gathered things I had on hand to create this look. My goal is of course to finish by Halloween.

You can view the finished frock with sewing details HERE.

Off to Austenland,

Laura