In the years shortly before the Civil War, many Southern plantation owners and their families “summered” in the cooler climate of the northern states, continuously along the New England coast. These journeys often included side trips to New York, Boston, or Philadelphia to replenish the family’s wardrobes with the up to date fashions. The particularly wealthy now and again went to Europe, returning home with stylish apparel from London or Paris.
Clothing worn all the way through this period by members of antebellum society conveyed a distinct glamor and elegance. Tom Tierney captures the ins and outs of authentic garments in 29 able-to-color illustrations. Included are walking costumes, evening gowns, morning and afternoon dresses, and wedding apparel for women, in addition to suits, vests, trousers, and handsome military uniforms for the men.
Descriptive captions accompany illustrations in an attractive coloring book with the intention to not only please coloring book fans, but can also be of use to costume historians and designers.