The Grand Prize

I realize this post is long overdue, however, the prize was shipped, and it was received by October 12th (more on that later.)  The prize included a black collapsible Victorian hat with a vintage styled cameo, sequins lace, and delicate burgundy and black feathers.  We also sent matching shoe clips, a buckle choker, and a burgundy toned fan with black lace (forgot to take a picture). 

These items were styled to the winner's general request, the prize is valued at $60. 

Latest Costume - Resurrected from the Past

After several inquires, I have decided to bring back the Victorian Lady's Walking Costume. 

This lovely costume is functional, easy to wear, and looks authentic!  

You can read more about how we made the first one in this post :) 

http://asweetreminiscence.blogspot.ca/2011/09/picnic-social.html

Day 20 of the 40 Day Design Challenge: A Victorian Parasol & Annie Clark

The Victorian Parasol.  

There really is no other description for this parasol, I am so thrilled with its whispering little ferns. 

I simply love the purple. 

And now for our featured guest, a courageous, incredible girl who has not only won contests, 

but has published her own book! 

I hope you all stop by her website, and pick up a copy of this book 

- the downloadable version is perfect for kindles!

Annie Clark from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, was born without hands. She won a National Handwriting Contest in 2012. She has appeared on the Glenn Beck show twice. She continues to inspire the world with her determination and persevering spirit.  Visit her website here http://www.writewhereiam.com.  

Steampunk Victorian Reversable hat!

 

Feathers, metal, vintage brown.  This lovely woolen blend hat is both cute and reversible.
Yes, that is right, even with that enormous wing of feathers!
The decoration is one fully attached piece.  It attaches to the hat by means of a bar pin and a alligator clip.  The bar pin, when inserted and latched, carries the main weight. The alligator clip, clips to the ridge near the brim to provide balance.

 
(See above examples of alligator and bar pins.)

Ash Tree Meadow Designs Has a New Look

Since it's been almost a year since I have updated, I thought it appropriate to intoduce you to our new look.
The past year has been very eventful, my best friend asked me to marry him and I was very happy to accept his proposal. What I thought would be a brief break turned into a year, as we planned the wedding and relocated.  Will be posting some pictures soon, I didn't make my dress, but I did make my veil.

Glad to be back :)
~Ashley

~Welcome~

The First Design

Dress-up has always held great appeal to me. As a child , I walked down my grandfather’s hallway with a sheer pillow case on my head and a curtain draped across my shoulders—in my imagination: A beautiful bride. I had found the cast off items in the spare room closet, delicate, white, and beautiful. My uncle handed me a dandelion. My hallway procession was just the beginning of many costumes.

***

So, that is how it started. In the near future, I hope to post pictures of the outfits created for various re-enactments, costume socials, and festivals. Although most of the outfits are Victorian Era and early 1900s, we have made a few party costumes.
Many have asked me if I sew the dresses and what patterns I have used. I haven't really used patterns. All outfits are made from old cast offs. Unlike professional costume designers, old clothes are purchased from second hand stores and altered to create the desired look. Professional designs are often costly and sewing from a pattern is largely time consuming.
I strive to provide authentic costumes at a reasonable cost, recycling clothing, turning something old into something beautiful. I am often enthusiastically joined by my friends and sisters in this endeavor. My blog is both a display and a tribute to their advice, photography, design, and general friendship. Together, we plan to bring these costumes to your doorstep and hopefully entertain you with historical quotes, facts, and fun. Enjoy my blog!


~Ashley
Of the Ash Tree Meadow, Designs. (c) 2010