The English (Night)Gown: An 18th Century Gown

Friday afternoon, April 4th - Sunday, April 6th

Registration opens Wednesday, January 8th at 12:30 pm

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 closed center front and was worn in the 1770s-80s.

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 cotton for BOTH bodice & sleeve.  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.

Workshop cost of $325 includes: 2 1/2 day workshop 

Class size will be limited to 12 Participants

Registration opens HERE Wednesday, January 8th at 12:30 pm

*CANCELLATION POLICY

Because of the nature and enrollment limitation of our workshops, we regret that we are unable to give a full refund for a cancellation.  If you cancel 30 or more days prior to the workshop, we will refund your fee less a $50 cancellation fee. If you cancel less than 30 days prior to the workshop, we will have to charge the full amount of the workshop unless we are able to fill your slot, in that event you will be charged only the $50 cancellation fee.  In the event of the workshop being cancelled we are not responsible for any costs by the attendee for cancelled reservations.