Eighteenth Century Dressing

Here is a sneak peak at the making of a short museum film on the layers of 18th century dress. It was commissioned by The Lady Lever Art Gallery and made by Crow’s Eye Productions, directed and filmed by Nic Loven.

All the layers of costume were handmade by me except the patchwork pockets which were made by Kate Loven based on originals in an American collection.  The actors were Kate Loven, Amy Beven and Lydia Staniaszek, the film crew included Bryony Hooper (1st AD), Thomas Baker (lights) and Anita Cudbertson (period hairstylist). The photographs were taken by Victoria Louise. Many thanks to Mr and Mrs Snowdon for the use of their beautiful home.

VL pic 18th c. 8
The shift photo (c) Victoria Louise
VC pic 18th c. 2
Lacing the silk stays (c) Pauline Loven
18th century stays
Kate in stays, linen shift and pockets (c) Pauline Loven
Pauline Loven pinning the gown closed in the light of the open door.
Pauline Loven pinning the gown closed in the light of the open door. Photo (c) Victoria Louise
VL pic 18th c. 6
Preparing for the final scenes: L to R: Lydia Staniaszek, Kate Loven, Amy Beven and Bryony Hooper. (c) Victoria Louise
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