Vintage photographs, paintings, and fashion plates from the 1860s illustrate the prevailing trend of ladies wearing some
decoration in their hair for formal occasions. A formal event was the perfect
excuse to indulge in pretty “bling” for the hair and the ladies' magazines had
plenty of advice to offer. Materials used inlcuded everything from flowers, foliage and laces to ribbons, jewels, and feathers... and anything else a lady could think of!
To be correct, a modern lady reenacting a formal 1860s occasion
should follow suit. To help those who may not want to make their own, I enjoy making headpieces for ladies. It’s a fun way to
vent those creative moments!
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| Headpieces illustrated in Godey's April 1864 edition |
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| Headpieces illustrated in Godey's August 1864 edition |
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| A Headpiece I designed, inspired by Godey's |
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| Another design of mine |
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| This is a custom piece I made for a friend |
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Wouldn’t you love to look like Princess Mathilde Bonaparte?
Her lovely headpiece complements her gown.
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Or maybe you'd like to look like Princess Alice Saxe-Coburg!
Headpieces didn't always match the gown. |
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Matching the gown or not, nearly all ladies would wear a headpiece with a ball dress.
Le Bon Ton, April 1863 |
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| These are headpieces I've been working on for the Olde South Ball Bazaar! |
The Olde South Ball is my next formal event and I'll enjoy wearing one of my formal headpieces. Will I see you there? :) (Hint: You can register at this link!)
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| Pretend you don't see that modern camera I'm holding and instead admire my headpiece! :) |
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