Madame Weigel's Patterns: 1878-1950

Title: Madame Weigel’s Patterns: 1878-1950

Author: Veronica R. Lampkin

Publication: Privately published, 2020: print consulting by Inscope Media, Sydney; printed by Ligare Book Printers, Sydney

Format: Hardback, saddle stitched spine; 320p text + 24p images (black & white); 245 x 180mm; references, list of patterns used with dates, index; each book individually shrink wrapped by the printer

ABOUT THE BOOK

This book presents a unique history of Madame Weigel’s paper pattern series for sewing, from her first pattern in 1878 to the last to feature in her fashion journal, Madame Weigel’s Journal of Fashion, in 1950.

As Madame’s patterns were widely distributed across both Australia and New Zealand, this book adds a significant contribution to the history of fashion and clothing in Australasia. Weigel’s patterns covered the entire lifecycle from birth to mourning, for every member of the family, encompassed high fashion and everyday clothing, the latter often repeated in her journal for years, even decades, as high value patterns achieved longevity.

As Madame Weigel’s patterns were interwoven with the Australasian climate, each season is examined to chart the bathing suits, sunhats, dust protection, and holiday wear of Summer; the furs and warm fabrics of Winter; and the in-between seasons of Spring and Autumn. International influence in Weigel’s pattern series is also detailed.

Chapters examine Madame’s pattern series decade by decade in fashion, and by style, from draped to tailored. Dame Fashion’s decrees tell of this mysterious fashion force, with summaries on the cost of fashion; fashions in revival; fads and eccentricities; good taste, bad taste, and personal style for Madame’s loyal followers across the colonies. For each section, a focus on the terms of the day gives the contemporary description of the time.

Madame Weigel’s strong link with Australasian women, those who sewed at home to clothe themselves and their often large families, tell a unique story not only of women’s skills with fabric and the sewing machine, but of the breadth and depth of their creative work. Madame had a keen empathy with the women she served, knowing of their occasional extravagance but more importantly their thrift.

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A very popular pattern, this divided riding skirt accompanied a well-fitted riding jacket. When first issued in 1905, the skirt was described as 'a most comfortable and convenient shape' and very graceful when off the horse. An important development as women riders moved from side saddle to ride astride.More...$2.00Add to Cart

17 Apr 2015 12:41 PMCHRISTENING ROBE: Pattern 467: Baby's Christening Robe (1882)A stunning christening robe pattern, dated 1882. Perfect to use as invitations for a baby's christening or naming ceremony, this beautiful postcard shows one of Madame Weigel's earliest patterns.

Pattern 467: Baby's Christening Robe was a long flowing gown, decorated with elaborate bands of trimming and lace. At the back, a sumptuous bow with long trailing ends.More...$2.00Add to Cart