When I describe my heroine’s gown, I give little thought to what
it would have cost. So yesterday, for fun and to take a break from writing, I began
researching prices in the early 1800’s.
Just a simple gown of silk - a day dress like this one
would cost around 1 pound 6 shillings for the material, which would equate
today to be about $90.00. Add in the ribbons and the other essentials to
make the dress, thread, interfacing, the pattern etc as well as the fee for the
seamstress.
In my estimation in today's currency including silk
stockings, at 20 shillings which is 1 pound $98.00, shoes at 11 shillings
$36.00 and cotton undergarments at 6-10 shillings or $33.00. The total for
just a gown to be worn in the morning would be $257.
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