Embellishments: Constructing Victorian Detail, Paperback

Independent Publisher Book Awards

This book of full-color photographs and how-to guide highlights ten of the dresses from the Embellishments exhibit and analyzes their design elements in depth. Each item has been closely examined, taking advantage of places where threads have loosened over time to peer at the back side of trims, searching garment interiors, and studying fabric grain lines and seams for clues on construction. Lush photography of full-length gowns and close-up views of construction details are paired with descriptions, clear diagrams, and instructions for a book you can enjoy on many levels. "Embellishments is a must have for fashion do-it-yourselfers, but this publication also belongs on bookshelves of serious fashionistas and Victorian enthusiasts." -Lynne Francis-Lunn, Director of Merchandising, Peabody Essex Museum "In an era in which our closets are full of mass-produced clothing, Embellishments offers us a rich and lushly illustrated book that combines an obvious love of handcraft with intimate knowledge of Victorian garment construction." -Michelle Tolini Finamore, Curator of Fashion Arts, Museum of Fine Arts, Boston

About the Author:

Astrida Schaeffer holds two Master's degrees and has been working with historic fashions and textiles for over twenty-five years as curator, mannequin maker, reproduction seamstress, researcher, and teacher.