Women's Clothing
Civilian Authenticity
Guidelines
The purpose of creating these standards is to give the individual exploring or
beginning reenacting some guidance as to where to begin to create their
wardrobe. Many times, individuals do not know where to turn to get good
information as to what they should be wearing. We have attempted to
provide you with a basic core wardrobe, our rationale behind why we think you
need it, and sources as to where you may be able to procure these items.
We recommend taking an experienced reenactor with you to purchase items at the sutlers until you become more aware of accurate items. Not everything sold at the sulters is accurate. Here are our recommended sutlers for purchasing this clothing:
Sutlers: Abraham's Lady - Civil War Lady - Designs by Jennifer
Quick Links:
Corset * Chemise * Drawers * Petticoat * Stockings * Outergarment * Dresses * Shoes
Corset: A well-fitting corset is the foundation for all your other garments. Please purchase or make this item BEFORE you buy or make your dress. As reproduction corsetiere Kay Gnagey is fond of saying, "Not all women in the era wore a corset, but none of them wore a bra." Unless you only wish to portray a poor individual, you will need a well-fitting corset. If you are a standard size and symmetrically built, you may be able to purchase a ready-made corset from one of the sources listed below. However, for maximum comfort, we highly recommend that you have your corset custom made to your own measurements and figure type.
Chemise (short-sleeved, loose shift-like garment): 1 or 2 chemises made from cotton or linen. Utilize all natural fibers for all undergarments to allow for maximum personal comfort.
Drawers (2 legs and a waistband): 1 or 2 pairs of drawers (recommended if you wish to wear a hoop - for modesty sake), made either from cotton or linen.
Petticoat (our version of a half-slip reaching approximately to the middle of the calf of the leg): 1 petticoat made from either cotton or linen.
Stockings: 1 or 2 pairs of stockings either cotton, wool or silk, in white, cream or standard colors (green, red, blue, black, brown) or striped.
Outergarment: Some form of shawl, either knitted or woven, to take the chill off.
Dresses: 1 or 2 dresses made from natural fiber fabrics (cotton, wool, linen or silk. Contact the unit librarian to obtain "period" correct fabric samples BEFORE purchasing your fabric).
Having 1 or 2 dresses to start with is a good strategy. Since most reenacting events are held during the summer, you may appreciate a change of clothing. However, it is not necessary to have more than 1 dress. Sometimes wearing the same dress all weekend can be a more accurate portrayal of a time when the average person did not have a whole lot of clothing.
Shoes: 1 pair of reproduction shoes or modern shoes that will pass until your budget allows for more accurate footwear.
Want to contact us? Email our Authenticity Committee.
authenticitycommittee@145thpvi.org