How to Make a Colonial Woman's Costume

eHow may earn compensation through affiliate links in this story. Learn more about our affiliate and product review process here.

Things You'll Need

  • Long sleeve white blouse

  • Black tights

  • Long black skirt

  • Black V-neck sweatshirt

  • Plain white apron

  • Pencil

  • Scissors

  • Muslin fabric

  • 18-inch piece of white ribbon

  • Black shoes

  • Basket (optional)

Items in your closet can easily be turned into a colonial woman's costume.

During colonial times, immigrants came to America from Europe. When they arrived in the colonies, they took care of their needs by growing their own food, making their own clothes and working to provide other necessities. Therefore, colonial women wore clothes that protected them from the sun and were suitable for working. Making a colonial woman's costume is not difficult and you may have many of the costume pieces in your home. This easy, no-sew version of a colonial woman's costume is perfect for Halloween or a colonial era school project or play.

Advertisement

Step 1

Put on the white blouse and button it up. Wear the black tights and tuck the blouse into the top of the tights. Position the skirt so it covers the tights and bottom of the blouse.

Video of the Day

Step 2

Tie the white apron around your waist. Check in a full-length mirror to make sure the apron looks even.

Step 3

Pull the sweatshirt over the blouse. Make sure that the white blouse peeks out from the sweatshirt.

Step 4

Fold an 18-inch piece of muslin in half. Draw a half circle so that the center of the circle is on the folded portion of the muslin. Make the half circle as large as possible. Use a scissors to cut out the edges of the half circle so that when you unfold the cut piece you have a full circle.

Advertisement

Step 5

Cut three or four slits in the circle so they are evenly spaced around the perimeter of the circle and an inch from the edge. Weave the ribbon through the slits. Place the circle of muslin on your head and tie the ribbon to secure it in place.

Step 6

Finish the outfit with black shoes. You can also carry a basket as an accessory.

Tip

If the ribbon is too long, trim it after the cap is in place. Let a friend help you secure the hat to your head.

Warning

Avoid making the circle too small. This will prevent the cap from fitting your head.

Advertisement

Video of the Day

references