The name of this site is inspired by the brothers Pauquet (Hippolyte and Polydor), who published one of the first illustrated histories of fashion: Modes et costumes historiques et étrangers. Their prints, which were often handcolored, have informed our sense of historical costumes--even if they weren't always very accurate. Because nearly all of my projects are inspired by historical fashion, one way or another, I thought this would be a fitting name.

The fashions of the past relied more on tailoring than spandex; they demonstrate different ways of envisioning the body than our current image; the articles of clothing worked together in different ways than our clothes of today. I'm always interested in finding ways to incorporate these images and details into contemporary dress.

At this site, divided by the type of craft, I'll present some of my favorite resources, as well as explanations of how I created some of my recent projects, accompanied by photographs.

ewing projects make up the bulk of what I do. I try to use natural fibers and plain colors.

nitting is the craft that I've learned most recently. Although knitwear is a relatively modern fashion, I've done some projects in a vintage style.

 mbroidery is most time-consuming, but I enjoy historic reproduction needlework.