Theatrical and Period Costumes Show

Dear Readers,

The 'Theatrical and Period Costumes' show was the MFW event I was mostly looking forward to. You know me and my unhealthy obsession with Versailles. 

The Mercedes-Benz showroom in Lija was delightfully set up with candles and I'm assuming that helped to recreate the 'courtly' ambience this particular show required. Before the start of the show itself, we were all able to admire a selection of authentic theatrical and period costumes, which as emphasised in the show's introduction, hardly ever left the Manoel Theatre.

That made me feel very lucky.

The show itself featured a breathtaking collection of 17th century attire, for both men and women, which unsurprisingly reflected the main characteristics of Baroque fashion. To put it simply, baroque is exaggeration. In meal terms, Baroque clothing is like the 'buffet of fashion'. 

One could hardly miss the evident farthingales - notably what is known as the Great Farthingale - that were featured in pretty much every single ladies' outfit. These farthingales, as well as elaborate petticoats, are what lies behind the volume of the dress. I always fascinate myself with the way these thick, rich fabrics used for Baroque clothing are still lifted with the mere use of the aforementioned aspects. 

Whereas brocade was clearly one of the most popular textiles on show, colours were somewhat more varied, even though the jewel-toned palette seemed to predominate. As expected, lace cuffs adorned both men and women's costumes, many a times being accompanied by a matching falling ruff. I did, in fact, also wear a ruff blouse myself to fit in well with the overall theme.

I have to admit that I'm a sucker for both male Baroque costumes and stomachers on the ladies' dresses. With regard to the first, I blame my belief of meeting my very own Count Fersen, clad in below-the-knee pantaloons and stockings. I can also tell you that my absolute favourite costumes were the ones on the gents, especially a pair of lace-detail shoes (which I intend to eventually recreate for myself).

Stomachers are V or U shaped panels on the dress' bodice that serve two main purposes. They are, essentially, there to create structure. Early 17th century stomachers were less stiff than the ones of the latter part of the century. However, stomachers were traditionally the most decorated areas of a Baroque garment, so it's inevitable for me to look at the entire fashion behind them. Think ribbons, bows, and lace, sometimes in contrasting colours to create a more interesting finish to the entire look.

Whereas I wasn't lucky enough to see an authentic cartwheel ruff neckline, I was pleased to see a military-inspired jacket on one of the exhibition mannequins. If I'm not mistaken, these military style garments were incredibly popular during the 30 Year War at the time. And let's be honest, I've always had a thing for epaulettes!

This show sent me to Versailles for a few minutes. I can't complain can I?

-B