2012 Fashion Show

Famous and Infamous Victorians came calling at the 2012 Festival Fashion Show. Ladies of all social classes were represented, from reproductions of the dress worn by Queen Victoria’s daughter-in-law Princess Alexandra of Denmark to the scandalous garments invented and worn by Amelia Bloomer. Adelaide Bartlett, who was charged in the murder of her husband, appeared in her “widow’s weeds,” and Isabella Bird a famous 19th century writer and natural historian modeled an 1888 Redingote. This unique fashion featured deep slits in the back making it suitable to wear when riding horseback. She was quoted as describing her non-conventional life as “I am doing what a woman can hardly ever do – leading a life fit for a man.”

Others joining us were Harriet Martineau, reputedly used by Dickens as a model for Mrs. Jellaby in Bleak House, and newspaper editor Lucy Larcom who met Mr. Dickens when he visited in 1842. Talk of infamous Victorians in the U.S. would not be complete without an appearance by Lizzie Borden.

Want to join the fun and model your costume at next year’s festival? Sign up for the Dickens Diary and watch for information about where to register. There is no charge for appearing in the show, and hundreds of people will see and admire your handiwork and good taste. Women and men are both welcome to participate – contact Nancy Smith at dragonsmith@verizon.net.

2012 Festival Fotos

More photos from 2012 are at Michael Elderman's site. He is a fine photographer and caught many wonderful moments.