The workshop runs 9am - 6pm on both Saturday and Sunday including breaks.
“The English (Night) Gown” An 18th Century Gown
Worn throughout much of the 18th century by all levels of society, the “nightgown” or robe a l’anglaise, was one of the most common gowns seen in England and its American colonies. Distinguished by its stitched-down back pleats, this gown was quite versatile, as fabric, accessories, and choice of trim (or not), could make it fashionable or workwear. While earlier versions of this gown had fronts finished with folded or attached robings, in this workshop we will focus on the version that closes center front.
This 2 day workshop, led by
Brooke Welborn, Mantua-maker, will include:
- An examination of images of this style of garment, and the varieties of ways it can be finished.
- Examination of how basic lining shapes are modified to the cut and fit of a nightgown.
- Learning how to pleat the back of the gown without a pattern or template.
- Demonstration of all stitching & construction techniques needed to hand stitch and finish the garment.
- Participants working with a partner to fit their garment, using the methods of the 18th c. Mantua-Maker.
Due to time restraints, participants are required to bring with them previously cut and fit basic 18th century lining shapes in muslin (cotton) for BOTH bodice & sleeves. These “shapes” can be from a previous Burnley & Trowbridge workshop on cutting shapes or copied from a pattern or garment that fits well. These “shapes” will then be adapted for the fit of a 1770-80s gown.
An 18th century shift, under-petticoat, and a well-fitted 1760-80s pair of stays are required for this class, in order to properly fit your gown. If you are considering wearing your gown with underpinnings such as a hoop or bum roll, please bring these as well.
By the end of the workshop, participants will have their gown well under construction, and will have the knowledge to complete it on their own. Please be prepared for “homework” on Saturday night!
This workshop is an
INTERMEDIATE LEVEL 2. Participants are expected to have good hand sewing skills and experience in creating an article of 18th century clothing using a pattern (or cutting to the figure), and have fitted that piece of clothing. Please read more about our current Workshop Levels
here.
Class size will be limited to 12 Participants
Cancellation Policy
Due to the nature of this workshop, cancellations may be made up to 60 days before the start of the workshop for a full refund. Cancellations made 60 days or less before the workshop begins will not be refunded unless the space can be filled. Please contact [email protected] with any questions. In the event of the workshop being cancelled we are not responsible for any costs by the attendee for cancelled reservations.
Museum of Gloucester events:
Behind the Scenes Tour of the Costume Collection of the Museum of Gloucester with Burnley & Trowbridge
Friday 21st February 17.30-19.00 at the Museum of Gloucester
Why not extend your stay in the beautiful City of Gloucester and join Angela Burnley & Brooke Welborn of Burnley & Trowbridge for a special Behind the Scenes Tour of the Costume collection held at the Museum of Gloucester. The collection was famously used by Janet Arnold for her book series 'Patterns of Fashion'
Tickets for this tour are £17 and include hot drinks and biscuits. Select your ticket under 'Extras'
Behind the Scenes Tour of the Museum of Gloucester
Monday 24th February 10.30 - 11.30 at the Museum of Gloucester
Ever pondered what goes on behind the scenes of a museum? Satiate your curiosity with our exclusive Behind the Scenes tour! Dive deep into the inner workings of our vibrant institution for an hour-long journey filled with intrigue and discovery. Join us for a special tour of the Museum of Gloucester, where the Collections Team will guide you through both the gallery spaces and exclusive storage areas. Your friendly and knowledgeable guide will show you many highlights in the collections including dinosaur fossils, a sword belonging to King Richard III and forgotten Roman remains…
Tickets are £14. Over 18s only due to sensitive nature of the collection. Select your ticket under 'Extras'
Burnley and Trowbridge
Burnley and Trowbridge has served the historical community for 30 years offering modern textiles best simulated to their historic counterparts, as well as producing reproduction textiles & accessories for museums and institutions. The in-person Hands-On Workshop Series, which started in 2002 as an educational outreach, has grown to be known internationally. In addition, they provide a multitude of tutorials and lessons geared towards teaching historically accurate sewing methods online. Burnley and Trowbridge Co. - YouTube
Through workshops, their YouTube channel, social media, and scholarly talks given by Angela, Burnley & Trowbridge has come to be recognized as an ally to those within the historical community at large.