Hi all, hoping someone can help my. I am a beginner in millinery and have been asked to make some hats to be used in a community theatre production set in 1895. Has anyone got any experience in this area that can suggest best material types, styles, trims etc to use for this project. Suggestions for resource information would also be appreciated.
I'm no expert, but imagine that you could start looking at historical pictures, e.g. this small collection on Pinterest - http://pinterest.com/americanduchess/hats-1890s/ or some of the museum libraries. Old catalogues, such as Sears might be available on line or through museums too. Also, your local library may be able to access books on costume design - or perhaps historial societies???
I imagine with theatrical costuming, cost will be a big factor - so you may have to forego some of the more traditional materials and consruction methods.