A mid 18th century gown for Mrs Elizabeth Dawson Edinburgh 2021

In 1766 Mrs Elizabeth Dawson née Pillard and Mr William Dawson married and bought the Dawson’s Cotton & Wool Shop in what is today known as Gladstone’s Land. Elisabeth had been a merchant of drapery previously at Gladstone’s Land, but was not able to buy the shop until she got married.

This costume is one she might have worn while working the draper’s shop, showcasing the newest fashionable fabric.
The costume features a shift, a pair of stays, a lacy silk cap, a quilted silk petticoat, a brodeire anglaise fichu, a silk chiffon apron, and a candy coloured striped silk gown l’anglaise.

Personal Project: Designed, Drafted / Draped, Cut, and Constructed.