Specialist Summer Courses

Summer term:

• 25th June – 6th July 2012

The 19th century was a period of experimentation for tailors as they attempted to make a science of the sartorial arts. Consequently, male fashion saw a number of significant changes that very often-reflected changes in society and the way people lived.

The course is ideal for anyone wishing to learn about male period costume and if you are into Steampunk, this is a great opportunity to add to your Steampunk wardrobe.

It offers an opportunity to do some advanced tailoring work through the cut and construction of a part 19th century Male Frockcoat.

You will learn about the developments in male tailoring during the 19th century and put English bespoke tailoring techniques in to practice through the making of a Victorian frockcoat.

You will be able to explore the specialist traditional techniques of using a tailor’s square to draft patterns, as well as all the traditional methods used in the cutting and making processes of English bespoke tailoring.

The course is designed for anyone with a good knowledge in garment making, intermediate – advanced hand and machine sewing skills and anyone who wishes to advance their skills in understanding male period costume.

Tutor:

Graham Cottenden – historian, tailor and well-known international expert and advisor. Graham is currently researching 18th to 20th Century tailoring. His practice includes costumes for the New British Galleries at the Victoria and Albert Musuem and international tailoring workshops.