Historical Draping and Tailoring of Fabrics

Historical Draping


Indian Sari
This is a photograph of three women in their traditional dress known as the sari. As you can see the fabrics are colorful, and our lightweight to help with the hot climate. The way the cloth is draped, it gives the body plenty of breathing capabilities. A sari is usually paired with a long scarf like duppatta which is draped over the shoulders and down the back. This provides a protective shield for the face and head from the sun, rain and wind. It can also be draped on the shoulders and worn like a shawl.

Empress Theodora
This is an image of Empress Theodora in 547 AD. This is at the end of the Western Roman Empire where the fashionable way of dress had adopted oriental elements which culminated in Byzantine styles. The use of fringes, brighter hues, and richly patterned brocades adorned the simple robe shapes.

Ancient Egyptian Linen Draping

This is an image of two women during the Ancient Egyptian times draped in white linen. Women usually worn the fabrics are robes or tight dress, and some even with straps that covered the woman’s breasts. The way the linen draped on the silhouette worked well with the warm climate, due to it light material.

Historical Tailoring

Womens Tailored Suits

This is a photo of Fiona Campbell Walter and Anne Gunning taken by John French in London in 1953. These women are wearing classic tailored suits. The suits are composed of a fitted blazer paired with a skirt that hit right below the knee. Looking closely, you can see the beautiful stiching which helped hug the silhouette in the best way possible. The blazers are decorated with beautiful buttons.

George Washington and his Breeches

This is a photo of George Washington wearing his famous tailored breeches in the late 1700s. These pants were made of deerskin and fit Washington like a second skin. These breeches are paired with a long tailored blazer that hit right above the knee.

Royal Gowns

The “Darnley Portrait” of Elizabeth I in 1575 is a classic example of a tailored gown. The intricate stitching as well as the adornments makes this gown a one of a kind. The detailing of the collar as well as by the wrists are fitted specifically to her. The tailoring through the waist and shoulders flows smoothly with her silhouette.