Costuming Books

“Whatever Shall I Wear?: A Guide to Assembling a Woman’s Basic 18th Century Wardrobe”, Mara Riley, illustrated by Cathy (Kate) Johnson (Excelsior Springs, MO: Graphics/Fine Arts Press, 2002, ISBN 0963158-7-3). Your best, most up-to-date introduction to 18th century women’s clothing.

“Clothing for Ladies and Gentlemen of Higher and Lower Standing complied”, Marjorie Hicks (Eastern National Park and Monument Association, 1988). Discussion of style, construction and materials of clothing in eastern Massachusetts in the third quarter of the 18th century. [Available from Minute Man National Historical Park]

“Tidings from the 18th Century”, Beth Gilgun (Rebel Publishing Company, 1993). Reprints of articles on costuming, accessories, and activities for men, women and children during the second half of the 18th century.

“Who Was I? A Modest Guide to the Hows and Whys”, Cathy Johnson (Graphic/Fine Arts Press, 1995). Ideas, insights and resources for creating a general or specific living history persona.

“Sketch Book ’76”, Robert Klinger (Pioneer Press, 1967). Sketches and patterns of clothing, weapons and accessories for Revolutionary War soldiers and militia.

“A Guide to Civilian Clothing during the American Revolutionary War”, Julie Watkins (Folump Enterprises, 1993). A concise introduction to men’s and women’s civilian clothing during the Revolutionary War period. [Available from Smoke & Fire Enterprises, $4.]

“Rural Pennsylvania Clothing”, Ellen J. Gehret (Shumway, 1976). A detailed resource on the history and construction of common people’s clothing during the later 18th century.

“Heroes of the American Revolution Coloring Book”, Marko Zlataich with illustrations by Donna Neary (Bellerophon Books, 1988). Illustrated descriptions of uniforms of a variety of New England soldiers, authoritatively researched, with sources. Also makes a great coloring book for kids.

“Everyday Dress of the American Colonial Period Coloring Book”, Peter Copeland (Dover Publications, Inc., 1975). Illustrated descriptions of the dress of a variety of occupations and social classes of the colonial period, originally published in Copeland’s excellent (and now out of print) book Everyday Dress of the American Revolution.

“Early American Trades Coloring Book”, Peter Copeland (Dover Publications, Inc., 1980). Illustrated descriptions of the dress and life of colonial tradesmen and women.