Monday, January 04, 2010

Dreaming in 1820s

Little did I realize that upon watching the new Little Dorrit (from a Charles Dickens novel) over the weekend, that it would give me a huge bug to want to sew Regency and Romantic style clothing. Oh dear, oh dear. I think I am falling in love with the 1820s.

The costumes were delicious, though I took a liking more to Amy's simple gowns over the more regal apparel. I'm sorely tempted to make myself a frock like hers to just wear about the house, but then where would I find the time to do that, not to mention historically correct "unmentionables."

For this time period, I can't say that I like the hats, but Amy's few were darling.

The story as a whole is very "Dickens", and I like it as much as I do Bleak House. Maybe a little more? I appreciated the lesson of selflessness displayed by "Little Dorrit", and weaved throughout the story that money doesn't buy happiness. Perhaps once I'm done reading The Pickwick Papers, Little Dorrit will be my next Dickens novel to read.

After watching a historical movie, as always, I'm wishing that I could "skip the pond" and visit England. Of course, wearing historical apparel would be a must!

6 comments:

Elinor Dashwood/Melanie said...

I LOVE "Little Dorrit"!!! It inspired me also to make some Regency/Romantic era dresses. :-)

~ Shannon said...

I was so excited when they finally came out with a new adaptation of "Little Dorrit!" It's my favorite Dickens novel (I've read it six-or-so times, and never get tired of it) -- I think Amy is one of the most inspiring of Dickens's heroines because of the selflessness you mentioned. It's not an "easy" story, but it's certainly endearing!

If you do find the time for some 1820's sewing, I hope you'll share the results with us! ;-)

Blessings,
Shannon

Laura said...

I haven't seen "Little Dorrit," although I read (errr, skimmed) it for a class years ago. Perhaps I can track it down, as I always love a good period film!
I've also been wanting to do some early 19th century sewing lately... it seems like a good choice for a post-partum figure. ;-)

Cheri said...

Six times, Shannon? =) How does it compare to the new "series? In any case, you make me want to read the book myself!

Laura, seeing pictures of you on FB, I think you look fabulous! And little Edmund is really such a darling. I think he looks like you. =)

Sarah said...

I LOVE Little Dorrit. I saw the series on Masterpiece last year and then I had to read the novel, which was even better. The 1820's are my favorite historical time period and I LOVE LOVE LOVE the gowns Amy wears in this movie. So lovely, simple and so perfect for every day wear. I've made several gowns inspired by the ones she wore. I think the style is very flattering, especially, as Laura mentioned, for a post-partum figure. :) I've always like the gathered sleeves, slightly high waist and lightly gathered gored skirts flowing into a full hem that were popular in the 1970s and 1980' (gunne sax) and the 1820's are remarkably similar, only prettier!

Mrs. E said...

Lovely post on 'Little Dorrit'
which is one of my favorite
movies ever!!! I agree~ Amy's
hats are simply darling. :) *sigh*
Your blog is beautiful...
such a delight indeed.
I look forward to returning!!

Many Blessings~ Miss Jen
www.blessedfemina.blogspot.com