An 1890's Skirt in Silk // The Mandragora Gown (pt. 1)

[@Ryanw131]

EXCITING! these multi part sewing series you've done are like Netflix series at this stage to me haha

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Ryan!

[@pepperreed.33]

100% Glamourous Under-log Vibes + Moths = GOALS. Also, that fabric is DELICIOUS.

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Pepper!

[@bhavens9149]

Granny Tip, when you are sewing a large piece like that, ROLL UP everything to the left of the needle so the weight of it does Not Pull on your sewing. Also gives you something to hole onto While you are trying to move the material through the machine. :) Hope that helps.

[@TheClosetHistorian]

This is indeed an excellent idea!

[@milenemelendez7302]

Im sewing my 1880s wedding gown with your videos playing. Your voice and energy is so calming! And I love the music.

[@suzzanahbessette6989]

Mixed up in a Guillermo Del Toro blender is the most me aesthetic I've ever heard. "Chef's kiss!!!"

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Can't wait for Nightmare Alley!!! 🤩

[@SewSewDrew]

But can we talk about the eyeshadow for just a second? 🤩

[@LtSarai]

I absolutely adore this intro. And have I mentioned how much I love that your historic gowns are bug themed??? An inspiration is what you are. If I had the time, money, and executive function to do this I would but at least I can live vicariously through your videos.

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you! 🦋🕷🐝

[@doblemaltita]

I love that her style is "vintage but make it look poisonous"

[@bookhoarding]

That fabric is pure magic. Thank you for these wonderfully researched projects that are pop culture adjacent in all the fun ways.

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you!

[@lynn858]

I used to tint paint. If I had time and a curious customer, or bored kids, I’d pull out my card with all 14 tint colours on it. I’d tell them how many tints went into their colour, (up to 5) and let them guess. Colours like this, and many of the muted greens always surprised people. How can there be no green in this?! Straw and black make mossy green. Another cool trick is that there isn’t a single blue paint colour that doesn’t contain a tiny bit of red or magenta. Not a single one. They turn out kinda see through without.

[@catherinehawkins3211]

what an utterly interesting piece of information… Thank you for telling us. 😊

[@breawilldraw]

Honestly I don't know how in the world you ever got yourself to take this off?? It's so gorgeous I think I would have to just wear it at all times, always, forever, and everyone in my life would just have to deal with it. That silk, good heavens. DIVINE

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Breanna! The answer to wanting to take it off is simple, I fear snagging it on something or otherwise ruining it 😂

[@breawilldraw]

@@TheClosetHistorian ok that is THE most valid line of logic, lol! Now I see why rich Victorian ladies just sort of… sat all the time, they couldn’t risk damaging their skirts!

[@olygal]

I am here for the 'found under a log, but glam' vibe!!

[@melodysimonson1510]

A beautiful skirt. I love the color! FYI- If you place a card table at the left end of your sewing table, it takes some of the weight of the fabric off your shoulders and arms and also makes it easier to sew seams on such a large project. I have learned this as I have helped my mom make quilts for all the great-grandchildren. Just thought I would let you know for your next big project.

[@maryblaylock6545]

I have had that problem in the past making cloaks. Thank you for this information.🦉🐱

[@kathleenhaas6057]

A chair can work too if you don't have the space for a table. I don't know if I would try it with a full quilt, but I have used it with around 4 yards of fleece. If it is much bigger I take over the whole kitchen table so I can spread my fabric every where.

[@bunhelsingslegacy3549]

I'm a floor goblin, but I recognize that most people sew on tables :) great idea!

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Melody! Ah yes this would be good! I can't do it with how my room is currently configured, but in the future perhaps!

[@chazhoosier2478]

Hauling yards of fabric through a machine for curtains was how I learned to sew.

[@carolinebrown539]

Love the colour of the silk! It’s just mesmerising! Because you used silk, I would strongly recommend placing that under ruffle at least at the back to protect the fabric as you walk around. It was commonly done as skirts are expensive to make & the ruffle can easily be removed for cleaning or replacing.

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you! If I ever get to wear this skirt out and about I shall add a dust ruffle for sure!

[@emilyhedgehog547]

Your makeup and hair looks amazing here! You're use of bright colours has inspired me because you always look sort of 'Spooky' but not just all black and greys

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Emily! I try to do jewel toned goth really 😅✨

[@StitchingUpChaos]

Oh hell yeah. One, that silk is the most gloriously changeable wizardry I have ever seen. Two, I had no idea that particular skirt pattern was only three pieces. I was tossing up that one and the tulip (? bell?) skirt from tvd for a patchwork marsh faerie costume and argh, that one would have made things so much easierrrr~ I am super excited for this new project :)

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Kat! Yes it is mercifully few pieces which is very nice indeed 😅

[@spearbun]

Divine! I’m so excited to see the continuation of this series. Your gowns are always enviable.

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Nicole!

[@s.l.bright3675]

First things first, your eye shadow was gorgeous! Love the skirt and fabric. Good job 👍

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you!

[@WardGalina]

The intro music for your costuming videos is like a direct injection of serotonin for me at this point lol the skirt came out beautiful, so excited to see how the project goes!

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Gina! ❤😂

[@amyjanefrater1447]

I love the swish of the skirt. Yes, this green is enthralling, like the scenes of nature from your field notes. I hope you will do a modern piece inspired by this project, like the blouse that followed the Carmine Gown.

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Amy! 💚 Let's just say I definitely want a blouse from this silk so we'll see how it goes 😂

[@vindictivetiger]

That pleating would be divine in a wool suiting skirt... the movement of the cut is really divine! Beautiful job on the skirt--so excited to see you're off on a new adventure! And your hair looks fabulous, dahlink!!

[@aprildriesslein5034]

You'd probably like the video by Mariah Pattie where she recreates one of the Highlander skirts -- they did some amazing things with the pleating that I've never even heard of. 😲

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you!!

[@gwenwells3699]

Forget about needing a haircut, your choppy bangs are sublime! As is this amazing shot silk. Looking forward to this beautiful gown coming to fruition.

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Gwen!

[@dawnvickerstaff9148]

This is absolutely gorgeous. That delicious bronze-y green fabric just shimmers. You look fantastic. I cannot wait for the finished spider web embellished gown. I am GREEN with envy.

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Dawn! 💚🕸

[@Notlost-lj9qt]

Your cinematography is wonderful! I am in love with this silk. The skirt is lovely and I can’t wait to see the rest of the project. Your embellishment is always divine.

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you! 💚

[@Rotten_Ralph]

That’s a magnificent color… I can’t wait to see the bodice ‘es’ I’m very much looking forward to seeing this project… I’m interested to see how you solve the sleeve support problems. It will be beautiful I’m certain.

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you!

[@brendabijak7171]

Love them all! Yours is absolutely beautiful, as always! Half mourning? "My husband died and I'm kinda sad.......but I have eyes for my neighbor. so....I'll just wear, some black with some purple." LOL!!!!

[@amiehamilton1840]

Lol, Victorians took mourning etiquette extremely seriously and prescribed categories of mourning (ie, half mourning) depending on your relationship to the person who died and how long ago the died

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Brenda! Mourning rules were indeed quite intense, so you would first have a period of "full mourning" where everything had to be all black and not shiny, then you could start doing black with beads and other texture, then finally after 6 months or a year or so (depending on which relation you lost) you could introduce purple or grey perhaps and slowly ease out of black 💜 And only once out of mourning would it be appropriate to elope with the neighbor ✨

[@mommashortcake6647]

I get so excited when i get notifications for your videos! Im in a bad bad financial situation so i can live vicariously through you ❤️

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Michaela ❤

[@tiffanykaiser5607]

"In the forest, under the crisp leaves, you know like under a log ... But glamorous." I love it, hands down best description of a color i have ever heard! You are glamorous, talented and funny. Such a treasure to watch.

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Tiffany! 💚

[@lacyminoux9177]

Oh. My. God. I spent this whole video just positively drooling over that silk. The color is absolute perfection. But when I saw the finished skirt, I was absolutely gobsmacked. Stunning. Just stunning.

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you! It shines so acrid in the light 🤩

[@brookrose3023]

The 1890’s sleeves are the best. I can’t wait see it all!

[@TheClosetHistorian]

They really are /SO/ fun 😂✨

[@sephestra.]

Pretty sure I'd watch all the videos of you making household furnishings in different shades of Green. Tis my favorite color.

[@TheClosetHistorian]

My dreeeam 💚✨

[@marimba26]

This skirt is absolutely divine, can't wait for more of this project! Just the way it moves...and the fabric...it's dreamy.

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you! It's the best fabric for sure 😍

[@kirstenpaff8946]

I think I need to get a cloth to clean up all of the drool I spilled looking at that silk. Such a gorgeous color. I completely agree with your assessment of wanting all of the green silks from Silk Baron. They have such lush colors.

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Kirsten! It really is an extra color, SO epic 🤩

[@aprildriesslein5034]

Ooh, it's fun to see more Victorian inspired projects! I love your practical mid century videos for things I could actually wear regularly, but I love these for sheer fantasy power. 😊

[@EXO-L45]

This would more practical when you replace the silk with a sturdier fabric.

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you April! ❤

[@MsDeepAndDark]

Every time you were on screen, I couldn't tear my eyes from the necklace. Glad to see you've found a top with lower neckline to truly show it off) The hip area looks fine) And I look forward to the bodice and beading)

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you! I am so glad I found the matching brooch for this one too 😅✨

[@sharonrussell7933]

The color of course is extraordinary. Divine as you say. I'm loving this.

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Sharon!

[@Nichole.4nn]

Holy spiderwebs, this is incredible. The color, the fabric, the cut, and the video 👌🏻 Thank you for the sewing eye candy

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Nicole!

[@heatherthrone9999]

Incredible make-up on you. The moths who would live in the attic, so thorough!

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Heather!

[@elainebye9090]

Yeah! Another gorgeous historical costume series! Loooooove that fabric.

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Eliane! 💚

[@susansmith8602]

Masterful work of art combined with great commentary as usual, Bianca!

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Susan!

[@Gandellion]

Okay the colour of this fabric is soooo pretty

[@christikaboom]

I used that same silk for my 1780s Oogie Boogie gown! I LOVED it!!!!

[@TheClosetHistorian]

1780's in Mandragora sounds most excellent!! I want everything made in this silk now 😂

[@KatherineYoung]

I love thinking of how my clothing fits as a posture problem!

[@TheClosetHistorian]

I wish I could train myselfff, but I am a slouchy slouchy human 😩

[@judyharter8265]

That skirt is beautiful, the bodice or bodices will look stunning with whatever embellishments you create.

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Judy!

[@sinndymorr6358]

The fabric color is simply divine! Such a wonderful choice! I am very excited about this series 💚.

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Sinndy!

[@TheDressmakersCloset]

The fabric you’ve chosen is just the most beautiful colour green …. love your videos ❤️

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you! 💚

[@lindagoesel3815]

Absolutely beautiful, can't wait. Love your multi part series. You are so adorable. Thank you.

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Linda!

[@amandawright2388]

Gorgeous! Green and giant sleeves? Outstanding. As a plant and history person with... slightly questionable proclivities, I adore the name of the gown.

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Amanda! Love a wikipedia dive on a questionable plant myself 💚😂

[@KittyKittyx]

You are truly a inspiration! Your love for fashion costumes and history just does it for me. I love everyone of your videos especially these types. The cicada gown 😮 ugh! Truly jealous of your talent.

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you!

[@tambriggs]

What a beautiful aniseed green after a lovely absinthe green... Love the project!

[@TheClosetHistorian]

All the green flavors 💚 Thank you!

[@hedgerow.homestead]

I love the illusion of the black and yellow

[@baileydobbs2532]

Yay!! Another historical costume project! This made my day.

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Bailey!

[@amandarichard4739]

you are amazing. The editing is superb, sewing is ON POINT, and i never fail to learn something from you every time I watch. Thank you.

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Amanda!

[@bluestar.8938]

Oooooh, love this silk, Triumph. Thank you Bee : )

[@countrysidesewist]

Oooh, gorgeous, gorgeous, gorgeous silk! This is absolutely my favourite time period too. I'm very excited for this one!

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you! I am falling for the sleeves hard 😍

[@DanielleStJohn]

Ooooo that "turn and swoosh" at the end is delightful 😍

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you 😂💚

[@nixhixx]

Mandragora (AKA Mandrake) is ubiquitous in fantasy, it seems. Used it for a spell in my most recent novel. Fascinating properties.

[@cassafrass098]

The shape of the skirt you've chosen is just perfect, and I think that is the most divine shade of green I've ever seen in my life. Can't wait to see the whole gorgeous costume! I'm especially psyched about the pleated black silk bodice section, oof it's just gonna be sumptuous.

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you! ❤

[@sandiemable]

Oh my gosh, that is one fabulous skirt with plenty of built-in swooshes. Bring on the bodice or bodices! xoxo's Sandie

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Sandie!

[@hailtothefire_]

Your videos make me so relaxed and sleepy and I mean that in the best way. You have such a soothing voice and watching you sew is just so relaxing. I’m currently snuggled up in an heating blanket and fighting to keep my eyes open haha 🥱😴💚

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Amber! Cozy times are the best times so I'm pleased if I can help ❤

[@khaxjc1]

Im only a minute in but I had to comment because this look! The hair! The makeup! Brought together with neckline and necklace! 😭 Its all so fantastic!

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you!!

[@alexstrongmetal9838]

I love your long video series. It’s interesting to see all the pieces go together and a small glimpse of how long something like this would take.

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Alex!

[@panacheluxury4262]

The skirt turned out beautiful and you are right the fabric is absolutely delicious in my favorite colour as well, green.

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you!

[@shevuansereday6536]

Oh yeah buddy!! I am excited!!! I love it when you do these type of creations. Love the color. Love the intended pattern. I am looking forward to watching you create this garment.

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Shevuan!

[@1wolfpup]

Absolutely beautiful, as usual! Your hair looks really nice swept to the side! It accents your eyes really well. My grandmother was a hairdresser back in the 50’s and she did the hair and make-up for the Houston ballet. She told me that bangs pointed straight down and a middle part will focus the eye on your nose area and side swept bangs accentuate the eye area. I haven’t thought about that in many years, but recalled it as I saw your bangs today. God bless.

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Shannon!

[@AmPlant]

your makeup in the intro is absolutely stunning. I love the colors! Also that moonstone necklace is lovely And of course, I love where this project is going! That fabric has such a lovely sheen, it's going to look gorgeous with the beaded spiderwebs!

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you! 💚🕸

[@TheZeyre]

Just finished this skirt! Glorious! The fabric is also an amazing color! Congratulations!!! 🌏🌎🌍

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you!

[@kosmosjk]

That silk is truly a stunning colour and it is clear you are going to do it justice. I am looking forward to seeing the rest of this gown being made up :-)

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Julia!

[@caissafrass6631]

Oh my… I’ve been eying that taffeta on Silk Baron’s site and I think seeing this video is going to push me right into buying some.

[@TheClosetHistorian]

I reeeeally hope I have enough to make a blouse with some afterwards too 😅💚

[@laurelnolen2056]

Can’t wait to see more of this dress project! Since you like green and moths, I think you might find Pandora sphinx moths aesthetically interesting.

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Laurel! That is indeed one wild looking moth 💚

[@patriciaadams7965]

Oh how exciting! You are by far my favorite youtuber

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Patricia!

[@faylowery8693]

I love the color of this silk and it is going to be a fantastic gown. Can't wait to see the complete gown. 🖤💚🖤💚

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Fay!

[@amaronith]

Ooooh, I love these multi-part gown series!!

[@TheMMFamily9]

I love the eye look on the moths like peacock feathers

[@vilma.design]

Saying that I'm excited about this project is a massive understatement. Love the color and design! 💚

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you!

[@meme-sw1pc]

You made my day when came up, you are just so talented, all I can mange is to make scrunchies, love from Tasmania (the best place in the world to live). That fabric is so beautiful.

[@amiehamilton1840]

Another Australian learning to sew from Bianca and stuck on level scrunchie 🤣🤣 I'm in Perth, but agree Tassie is gorgeous!!

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you! This fabric would make a very glam scrunchie for sure ✨💚

[@skirtedgalleons]

Oh wow that GREEN! Beautiful skirt.

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you!

[@katrinalevin4064]

The color of the silk you are using is drool worthy, so good. I look forward to seeing the completion of this look.

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Katrina!

[@aliceadler8658]

Wow!!! Saw this yesterday on Patron!!! Still amazing!!! Love the silhouette of the skirt on you!!! Love the moth!!! I did look up the book. !!!! ♥️♥️♥️🤩🤩🤩🎄🎄🎄

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Alice!

[@margaretkaraba8161]

That's a beautiful colour! To push out that train a bit more you could put a balayeuse/dust ruffle underneath. It'd 1) save the fabric and 2) stop dirt from becoming ingrained into the train (dust ruffles were meant to be changed out when needed).

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Margaret! If I ever get to actually wear this costume for an event I shall need a dust ruffle for sure indeed 😅

[@marielmaxted4287]

ohhhhh.... all the hearty eyes for this color! Thanks for mentioning the silk retailer again, I just so happen to be in search for some quality silk. Oh, and your eyeshadow is FABULOUS!!!

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Mariel! Silk Baron is dangerous 🤩

[@adrianamancuso4917]

Oh my goodness, that colour is divine!! I love it. Great job! You look fabulous.

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Adriana!

[@Alina.Helavisa]

My mom loves the color green very much. She would also add different shades of green to each room.

[@AssassinofHighgarden]

Ooooh, exciting!! This color is wonderful (also, same, I'd be decorating in all shades of green, with silver or black trim preferably) and the spider web and moth themes are on point

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you! 🕸💚

[@rachellynncreates2703]

You’re eyes are divine and your hair is adorable. I love it all and can’t wait to see this journey that you’re on. Next though… I think you need to make one in a deep jewel purple.

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Rachel! I do love purple...💜

[@jacquelinelc2843]

Oh Bianca, what gorgeous fabric and yes, the colour is amazing. Could you adjust the size by adjusting the back pleats or would that throw off the design? I am so pleased to be on another sewing adventure with you. Looking forward to your next video.

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Jaqueline! They indeed say in the pattern instructions to not use the back volume to make the skirt bigger or it will throw off the shape 😅 I think it's funny that they put it in there!

[@alexipembrooke3510]

This has truly been the highlight of my week, I can’t see how things unfold (unless of course we need to keep them folded)

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Alexi! 💚 Let's just say I got a bit carried away on the mock up already...

[@alexipembrooke3510]

@@TheClosetHistorian oh I can’t WAIT!

[@nicolinaantoniettaarghittu447]

Lady Bianca, I have discovered you this past year, I so love all your videos, your look books and all your makes! You are so elegant, unique, original and always always so inspiring! Love the "acid-arsenic green" colour!

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Nicolina!

[@juliabetts9801]

Lovely skirt and yes I agree moths are beautiful too 🥰

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Julia!

[@sonjadalglish6544]

The skirt is beautiful!! Thank you for making!

[@janevacani6789]

Such a beautiful skirt and that colour green is just divine!

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Jane!

[@caoimhenimhuireadhaigh1303]

I am so excited!!! This fabric is simply *stunning*!!!

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you! I want curtains made from it so I can look at it all the tiiiiime

[@nicolelcedergren2938]

Absolutely stunning skirt! Love the way the green silk reflects light. Ever since I watched your cicada evening gown in emerald silk I've been obsessed with insects + green fabric and I blame you for that. :) So much so that I recently purchased some similar coloured green silk though different name from silkbaron for a Victorian corset. There's something about green... Thanks for sharing another wonderful sewing project.

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Nicole! I'm sorry I gave you the green bug 😉💚

[@Iarasilv]

Amazing fabric and plans! I can not wait to see the complete assemble! Will be fantastic, for sure!

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Iara!

[@DawnYarnDoll]

Everytime I watch one of your masterpieces I feel like you make me want to be more elegant and sophisticated. Everything about this is lovely. Written with love and well wishes xo

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Dawn! I promise I myself am neither very elegant nor sophisticated I fear 😂

[@DawnYarnDoll]

You give me hope that in all my clumsiness I will seem eloquent. You are a real role model I can admire. Keep shining like the diamond you are, the world is a better place with you in it. Happy Thanksgiving! Looking forward to seeing what you do next xo

[@TheClosetHistorian]

@@DawnYarnDollThank you so much Dawn!! ❤☺ Happy thanksgiving!

[@patti8070]

I’m excited every time you upload🎉🎉🎉🙌🙌🙌

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Patti ❤

[@amandawadman6516]

Amazing! My favourite green too! Love the ”odd” greens so much 🪲

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Amanda! Love an odd green 😍

[@TL_oS]

I love your hair like that! With the peasant blouse and makeup it is fabulous! Fun video.

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you!

[@byagnessimone]

This project is super exciting!!! Loving this skirt and beautiful green silk!

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Agnes!

[@michellecornum5856]

How did I not comment on this? I've watched it like four times now. I LOVE THIS!!! I have a version of this skirt that I cut all in one piece -- one seam, right up the back, the zip (NEO-Edwardian) gets covered by pleats or gathers, depending. LOVE this skirt pattern. And yes, this green is A-MAZING!!

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Michelle! I think I cut my turn of the century skirt that way, all in one giant piece but I can't really remember 😂