Introduction
"I would like to combine my knowledge in the fields of theatrical costume and historical interpretation. I propose to research, design, and construct a collection of garments appropriate for use in a historical setting using the theatrical design and construction methods taught at Grand Valley. The process would involve research on fashion in one or more of the time periods represented at the historic sites run by Mackinac State Historic Parks. Using the research, I would design a collection of garments that would be appropriate to use in historical interpretation at those sites.
The costumes would be constructed using theatrical techniques so that they would be suitable for the heavy wear and tear associated with the interpretation venues of the Mackinac State Historic Parks. Interpreters are often asked to perform quick changes and the clothing is worn during hard manual labor over the course of a season. Theatrical construction techniques, while still maintaining the silhouette and look of the time period, would ensure longevity in the costumes that weaker period methods could not offer."
This is the proposal that I submitted to the Honors College in October of 2006. Since then, although the specific design details of the project have gone through several permutations, the original concept remains the same. In the end, I wound up designing and constructing four outfits suitable for use in the historical interpretation presented at Colonial Michilimackinac. This historic site presents the fort as it probably appeared in the 1770's, so that gave me a target time period to aim for.
I chose to focus on the civilians at the fort. Other than the British soldier roles (commonly called "redcoating"), interpreters portray the French and Metis population at Michilimackinac. My final designs included a French man's ensemble, a woman's formal dress, a French-style woman's informal outfit, and a Metis woman's garb. These four designs closely reflect the roles that interpreters are required to work during a typical season.
All four outfits are made of natural fiber fabrics, both for period correctness and for comfort of the interpreters wearing the clothing. Natural fibers breathe, whereas synthetic fibers trap heat against the body, so even wool will be more comfortable than a lightweight polyester in the middle of the summer because it will allow for airflow and heat escape. The garments are constructed by machine and finished by hand. With the exception of the man's coat, there is no visible machine stitching on any of the garments. All inside seams are finished or enclosed so as to withstand repeated wear and washing.
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| Frenchwoman's daywear. | Metis woman's clothing.
Modeled by Holly. |
Printed polonaise gown. |
French furtrader's outfit.
Modeled by John. |
