Edwardian Barbie

Edwardian Barbie

Have you ever stopped to consider how long it takes to make an article of clothing?  Previous to the invention of sewing machines, most people only owned two sets of clothing.  (So why do we say 'Sunday best' when it was really 'Sunday better'?)

The dress Barbie is wearing is lined and interlined.  There is a foundation garment to give the skirt support.  The braid is hand-woven and the lace is hand-made in Belgium.  This garment represents many hours of careful work by a team of seamstresses, weavers, lace-makers and apprentices.
 
Barbie is going to a Harvest Ball this evening. Her new dress is a testament to her dressmaker's skills.  The gown will make it clear to all that hers is a family with a large disposable income and a high status in the community.

After I took the photo, I cleaned up all the leaves.  Unlike Barbie, I do not have staff to take care of the grounds.  I  just have a lawn and a billion leaves.