Costume Design and Make: Victorian Dress 2

About this course

The course examines how womenswear silhouettes changed during the Tudor and Elizabethan eras, including the meanings associated with historic dress. Participants develop a period-inspired design through research and negotiate an appropriate project outcome with the tutor. Teaching combines whole-class demonstrations and discussion with one-to-one guidance, using examples, samples and technical handouts. Practical work focuses on flat pattern cutting or draping on the stand, period-appropriate construction methods, and selecting fabrics, trimmings and haberdashery for a costume project.

What you'll learn

• Analyse the development of Tudor and Elizabethan womenswear silhouettes
• Create period-appropriate pattern shapes using flat pattern cutting or draping on the stand
• Apply construction methods suited to the historical period
• Select and use fabrics, trimmings and haberdashery appropriate to a costume project

Is this course right for you?

This is an intermediate course for learners with relevant prior study or equivalent competence in fashion or costume construction. The work combines practical making with research, demonstrations, group discussion and individual tutor guidance. Some activities involve standing at high tables.

• Previous beginner-level study or equivalent ability is expected
• Learners should be able to read, write and understand fluent English
• Digital, mathematical and numeracy skills are desirable but not essential
• The course involves both independent project work and collaborative studio practice

Before you go

• Participants must provide fabrics, haberdashery and threads for their projects.
• Bring a basic sewing kit, pattern drafting kit and note-taking materials.
• Some specialised materials, including calico for toiling, are available for purchase from the tutor.
• Some pattern-cutting and garment-construction tools, paper and card are provided for studio use.
• Class activities may involve standing at high tables. The fashion studios have lift access to the first floor.
• Food and drink are not allowed in the fashion studios, although bottled water is permitted.
• Health and safety induction takes place before participants use machinery or specialist equipment.