1790s Redingote

I've been planning this outfit since April when I visited with my dear Miss Waterman (who incidentally got engaged yesterday at the event!) in Tennessee. I thought it would be fun to do something 1790s at the Fair at New Boston, since the time frame for the event is 1790-1810. This is definitely on the early end of the 1790s! I felt really elegant in the outfit, even though the humidity and rain did a number on my hair... It was still tons of fun to wear, and the entire event was awesome as well! I got another chance to use my bow during a ladies archery practice on both days. I also picked up four period arrows to go with it! 

To make the actual redingote, I modified my basic 1770s bodice pattern, adding the lapels and giving it a straight waistline. I then had to draft the capes. Luckily I could use the two piece sleeves from the Mill Farm riding habit pattern. After much staring at the KCI 1790s striped jacket, I finally figured out the funky cuff on that too. The whole thing was assembled using 18th century techniques, in particular the "weird running whip stitch thingy" that Abby describes here: http://stay-ingalive.blogspot.com/2011/03/how-to-do-weird-running-whip-stitch.html. I LOVE this stitch! It is very fast and easy and gives a very neat look to the seams. I also referenced her tutorial for my hair, but again, the humidity and rain really made all the hard work almost for naught...