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A New England Folktale
This was a commission project for a client who wanted her own version of the wool ensemble worn by Thomasin, the leading character in Robert Eggers' film, The Witch (The VVitch). Costume design by Linda Muir.
Devon
10/12/20251 min read
We picked the perfect light shell pink wool. A medium weight lightly fulled wool. This is very period appropriate for 17th century clothes which need to be durable and warm. I lined the bodice with linen and added an inner linen strip to the hem of the skirt to help protect the wool from mud and wear. Other notions required for this project were linen cordage for the lacing, lots of strong linen thread for the eyelets, bone buttons used inside the skirt.
For the undergarment, one of the linen shifts of course. In fact, the reason I started making these shifts was precisely because I was so inspired by this film. I loved the idea of having an dress that could serve as underwear, a nightgown, an underlayer, or a dress on its own with the weather grew cold enough. Then I found in my research just how important this undergarment has been throughout history, nearly unchanging in shape between 1500-1700 for both men and women.
The bottom of the skirt is finished with tiers. I love this detail because not only is it a very easy way to add beauty, needing nothing else special such as lace or ribbon, but it also has practical benefits. It adds weight to the skirt, helping keep it down in wind, it can also be let out so in case it is made for a growing teenager who will need a longer skirt at some point.
I took some anachronistic time and cost-saving measures, such as using a sewing machine for most structural seams. However I used hand stitching on the bodice where it adds much beauty.
Overall, this was a very fun project that felt full circle. I deeply admire Linda Muir's costume design and creating my own take on her work was indeed fulfilling.
Please enjoy the following photos where you can see the full finished ensemble, modeled by friend Tessa.
