Historical Research

As with reproducing anything that was based upon history, one has to conduct research on a topic in order to discover as much information and fact about the topic as possible.

Every customer or re-enactor determines the level of historical accuracy that they want to achieve with the clothing that they wish to wear. However, it can sometimes be very helpful to know and understand what is historically accurate to begin with. That is what has led me on the trail of research. I started seeking out information and even amongst the books that I bought, I found discrepancies. Additionally, all sources are not created equal. Just because you saw it on the internet doesn’t mean it is true. Check out your sources for the information you receive, even mine…

When I first started out, I had no idea how to achieve those wonderful Victorian looks, what was underneath, holding it up, etc.

Then, I became interested in men’s clothing of the period since it seemed such a mystery and there was very little information about it. I started, and am continuing, to research the cut and construction of men’s clothing from the Victorian period.

As a result, I have written a few articles, both published in Shoot! magazine, and am working on a couple of books that might help those starting out. The articles can be accessed by clicking the links below.

I am currently working on other articles and books that might be of interest so I invite you to check back! Denise Winter

Historical Clothing Research Articles

Dressing Mr. Lincoln
Walk through the efforts required to recreate the clothing that President Abraham Lincoln was wearing when he was fatally wounded. The three piece suit was created for Lincoln enactor and historian, John Voehl. This article will provide an overview of the clothing construction and the story behind Lincoln’s clothing. Originally published in Citizen's Companion.
Cinchin It Up!
Read the article on corsets and the effect they had on women's lives during the 19th century. Originally published in Shoot! Magazine
19thC Frock Coats
Frock coats were a staple in men's clothing during the 19th Century and into the early part of the 20th Century. Read the article on the differences between frock coats and what defines a frock coat. Originally published in Shoot! Magazine
Understructure Timeline
View a timeline of Victorian ladies garment understructure and see the changes over time.