Bloom Below & Song Above - 1880s Plaid Bustle Photoshoot

In the historic village of LeRoy, there is a gazebo along Oatka Creek that I thought would make a lovely location for a photoshoot.  After finishing my c.1883-86 plaid dress, my sister, Maria, drove down to help me document the ensemble - followed by lunch at the D&R Depot Restaurant, my treat in thanks for her time and talents behind the camera, of course! 

In the following pictures, you'll see the three-piece ensemble blogged about in two posts, including making the bodice, and the skirts & draperies.  These are worn over silk stockings and American Duchess "Renior" button boots, a chemise, corset, lobster tail bustle, matching underpetticoat, and flounced petticoat.  A borrowed hat, braided updo with frizzy bangs, jet earrings, and blueberry leather gloves complete the look.  

*All photographs courtesy of Maria M.*  Please enjoy our pictures, and the accompanying poem is titled "The Balance" by Charlotte Becker, a prolific early-20th century poet from Buffalo, New York.

Gazebo Photo Series I: 

If the world were always gay,

Mirth to-morrow, jest to-day;

All delight without alloy —

What would be the use of joy?

Staircase Photo Series II:

If the world were always sad,

Care and grief the meed we had,

Doubt and fear the only gain —

What would be the use of pain?

Cherry Blossom Photo Series III:

If the world were always fair,

Ever on each street and square,

Bloom below and song above —

What would be the use of love?

Like what you see here and want to support the creation of future content, historical costumes, and fashion history programming?  Consider joining us over on Patreon with pledges starting at $2/month, and you'll also unlock exclusive content like bonus blog posts and more!  Follow @youngsewphisticate on Facebook & Instagram for regular updates.

Thank you for reading & special thanks to our generous patrons!