Cardinal Red Cloak- Red cloaks were popular in the 18th century and were all the rage in the Regency era.  They are also seen in variations in the Victorian era.  I have made mine more flexible by making the 18th century style hood removable so I can transfer this for other periods.  I also made it a full circle from a cashmere/wool blend so it is truly luxurious and as warm as I could get!  The inner collar blocks all cold breezes when it is inside the hood and the silk lining in the hood stops the wind.  I felt the metal clasp was needed as from my experience I am strangled by ties or have shot buttons across the room from heavy cloaks.  The hood pictures look odd because when I added the head form it was too tall, when I finally get someone to take real pictures of me wearing this I will update.

Historical Sew Monthly

The Challenge: Red

November 2016

Fabric: Cashmere/Wool Blend, Coat Weight and crosswoven silk taffeta for hood lining

Pattern: Full Circle to fit wearer, collar and hood drafted from 18th century drawing and pictures of museum pieces

Year: 18th-19th century (intentionally made for multiple periods)

Notions: silk thread, cast brass clasp

How historically accurate is it? 90% given accurate materials and hand sewn throughout but made fuller than originals

Hours to complete: 20 hours of handsewing

First worn: November 2016

Total: $80 fabric, notions from stash

Historical inspiration images…

18th century red wool cloak at Williamsburg

1860 red wool skating cape

1800 red wool cloak, silk lined hood with inner collar

Cloak, 1770, red wool with wool plush trim

Cloak, 1770, red wool with wool plush trim, hood detail

1890 red wool cape with metal clasp