Looking for an excuse to make a new 1890s look? Want to re-wear an 1890s look you already have? Sign up to be a model for this special members event happening this spring at the Chicago History Museum!
In 1895, the Boston Herald released a series of women's fashion plate paper dolls that were swiftly picked up by other newspapers. The Chicago History Museum has an amazing collection of these dolls from the Chicago Record, and we're working making a digital dress-up game with them that will launch at this event!
Rules
Even though the original paper dolls were only womenswear, we'd like to showcase menswear of the 1890s as well! There are some potential outfits at the bottom of the signup document.
Recreations of the original looks are highly encouraged! During the show, there will be a picture of the original look behind you as you walk. Your look doesn't need to be an exact 1:1 recreation (say you have a different fabric/color/trim you want to use, that's totally fine!). However, the silhouette/social function/spirit of the original paper doll's look should be evident!
If you already have an outfit that's close enough to an existing look, feel free to sign up for it!
If feathers are part of your look, they'll need to be substituted with something else for the show as outside feathers are not allowed in the museum.
If someone besides you will be modeling your look, please indicate on the sheet!
Other Info
Wherever possible, I've linked a reference image of the original uncut fashion plate in the spreadsheet.
-Learn more about the dolls here!