Early
gowns were quite tiny as infants were christened very early in life, often
at a week old. Mainly white fine cotton lawn was used although well off
families chose silk, which perished over time. 'One-size-fitted-all', with
cleverly fitted adjustable draw-string ties at the neck and waist. Minute
pin-tuck pleats attached a bodice to the long full skirt. Robing of lace echoed
an earlier fashion for an over dress, revealing a richly embroidered underskirt.
Fine stitching was worked on the bodice with lace or pin tucking forming a V
which matched the inverted V formed by the robing with embroidery on the bodice
echoing the design on the skirt.
Linda
explained how Ayrshire white work embroidery became popular about 1840 and
beautifully worked panels for the bodice and front were commissioned for high
status robes. As fashions changed, broderie anglaise, lace and pin tucking came
in to favour and were hand worked until the introduction of sewing machines in
1880’s.
Living
and sewing in Lincolnshire, Linda is a christening gown designer who sells
bespoke hand embroidered and reproduction gowns, most recently three of her
gowns were featured in the BBC series "The Paradise" She also repairs
and restores family gowns and has some original gowns for sale.
For a
more detailed look Linda's website http://www.littledoves.co.uk/ is filled with examples of
her christening gowns, rompers and accessories.
Judy O'Neill and Mary Paulger
