Southern Belle Gown?

[Kica Mandalay]

Does anyone actually wear a dress like this to EOT, etc. -- or have I had too many mint juleps??

I'm almost afraid to get out of my boots and levis and wear a dress -- but this one has caught my eye.

Advice for the newbie, please??
:ty



http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=290102679999&ssPageName=ADME:L:DBS:US:11


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[Ida Hands]

After my last post about an Ebay Item... I'm just gonna sit and admire. :lalala

[Bloomin']

Kica, I have only seen EoT on TV so I don't have any personal experience but at our NC State Match I saw a wonderful gal shoot in a hoop skirt and people were commenting how much they loved it! I think part of the fun in the costuming is that you can wear something that "catches your eye" and would be fun to wear. The parasol would certainly help with the sun. Is this for shooting, walking during the day, or were you thinking of it for something else? It is really pretty!

[Nevada Skye]

You see everything at EOT, and they people who made that dress up have had some that have caught my eye occasionally. I love my cotton calico dresses, the ones that GG detests!! But my persona is a Western woman on a Nevada Ranch (except when I am playing Dale Evans!) and from the pictures I have from my great-grandma's Kansas ranch, the wore much simpler dresses for everyday, or even in town. That looks to me like a not so rich lady's (like me!) go to town or barn dance dress. If you like it, and can wear it with a smile, great. The smile is the most important thing! I think it is a pretty dress.

[Lazy K]

Yes, indeed. While most of the dresses you see are post civil war, the hoop skirts are perfectly accectable at EOT.

[Allie Mo]

Hi Kica,

I don't have a hoop dress, yet!

Wear what speaks to you. That dress is very pretty.

Regards,

[Kica Mandalay]

My problem is I love it ALL! LOL I've worn everything from a nun's habit to queen's clothes at SCA to tavern wench to ..... Well, you get the idea. Even was dressed as a puritan once. And after living twice in the south, and working in the archives there, I have come to respect all the clothing styles. I guess I just need an outfit for each facet of my personality... :lool

Thanks everyone -- your input is valuable.
Just don't be surprised to see me as a queen one day and a saloon girl the next... or indian maiden... LOL
:ty

[Sweet Violet]

Kica, that dress is just lovely! I think of roses and stargazer lilies when I look at it! A wonderful summer bouquet! That would be so fun to wear!!

[Bloomin']

After my last post about an Ebay Item... I'm just gonna sit and admire. :lalala The "rude" thread? I don't think you were the rude person in that thread :rofl :rofl

[FrancesGrimble]

Having a different opinion, tastes, or personality from someone is not "rude." It's just different.

[Bloomin']

Frances, I will respond directly to your comment as I was the one who made the original comment. It is not about different tastes. It is about consideration for the work of others and your comment about reproductions on eBay. I thought that was extremely rude given the make up of the members on this website. There are people here who create those items, and people here who purchase those items. You also made the comment that generalized about the taste of us on the Alley who seem to like items that are not specifically historic. I will not speak for others, but I will finally speak up for myself. Yes, you were rude and I would think highly of you if an apology were forthcoming.

[Bloomin']

Kica, my apologies for the interruption in your thread. I hope you get this gown if it is what you love!!

[Nevada Skye]

I think that many of us that post here on the Alley are from SASS. SASS is a wonderful sport/game that is considered a Fantasy Sport/game, not a re-enactment of the West or Victorian times. This gives us wonderful leeway into how much or how little we want to be authentic. Most of the time everyone is here just to cheer each other on, no matter how we see the past or how we choose to portray it. We love our VBS, but who in their right mind would want to make them out of wool???? I don't have a ladies maid to help me get dressed everytime either, so I incorporate some modern time savers into my wardrobe. The ladies here have been wonderful, in sick or sad times for some of us, in our attempts at sewing or portraying a character, etc. I love the Alley.

[Allie Mo]

My problem is I love it ALL! LOL I've worn everything from a nun's habit to queen's clothes at SCA to tavern wench to ..... Well, you get the idea. Even was dressed as a puritan once. And after living twice in the south, and working in the archives there, I have come to respect all the clothing styles. I guess I just need an outfit for each facet of my personality... :lool

Thanks everyone -- your input is valuable.
Just don't be surprised to see me as a queen one day and a saloon girl the next... or indian maiden... LOL
:tyYep! That's me too. I just love dress up anyway, anyhow!:tban

I have to say that Allie Mo is my stage name. How I dress depends on the movie I'm doing at the time. ;)

[FrancesGrimble]

Dear Bloomin' Yankee,

No apology is necessary, as no insult was given; but I will give you a re-explanation. I was very careful to explain that I do not want to buy any reproductions on eBay (or anywhere else) because most other people's reproductions are not to my personal taste, nor in most cases would they fit me, as I'm very small. Having my own specific taste in colors, fabrics, trimmings, techniques, and styles, and my own body shape, is not any kind of insult to someone with different tastes or a different physique. And it is only realistic that if I am particular about what I want, the really sensible thing to do is to make it myself.

I also was very careful to explain that I prefer to make my own repros because I enjoy sewing them much more than buying. That is not any kind of insult to someone who either enjoys buying repros, or who needs to buy them because they don't have enough time to sew them, or even because they can't sew them. It is also no insult to the people who make the repros.

I was careful to explain that I enjoy reenactment in conjunction with learning activities but that I am aware that many people don't. That is not an insult to people who enjoy different activities than I do.

I also have no intention of putting down garments that do not display "total authenticity." I actually think "fantasy" clothing is quite fun; which is why I was discussing ideas used by some current "wearable art" designers to make Victorianish clothing to be worn in daily life, which is my own design thrill lately. There are a lot of interesting things to do with historic ideas, that are not authentic-historic. I'd probably be a Goth if I looked good in black and jewel tones. And, unlike some members of some SCA and Civil War groups, I never walk around reenactment events putting people down because they serged their seams or used nylon lace. As far as I'm concerned, if someone wants to wear a polyester bridesmaid's dress over a hoop to a Victorian dance--something I've seen about a million times--they are welcome to it. I have my preferences, and they have theirs.

And I have my opinions, and you have yours. That is no insult to either of us.

Fran

[Allie Mo]

Having a different opinion, tastes, or personality from someone is not "rude." It's just different.Dear Fran,

It is not the difference that would be considered rude. It is the choice of words to explain the difference. Some phrases could seem condescending and disdainful. That is what makes some opinions seem rude rather than merely different.

Sincerely,

[FrancesGrimble]

Well, I'm aware that my writing style differs from that of many people on this group. But, since I've explained myself, I hope you can learn to tolerate the differences.

One thing is, what I say is what I mean--I'm forced professionally to be very clear. There's not much subtext in it.

Fran

[Lady Leigh]

Kica ... If you want this gown, then get it!! You will feel very beautiful and dreamy while wearing it!! GO FOR IT!!!!!!

[Greeneyed Gypsy]

Kika...I have seen photos of hoops at EOT...you will not be the only one! Pink has been calling my name all spring, love the color. My mom once made me a hoop dress and I sewar she did it to spite my * I hate hoops!* commentary, I actually love some of them ( I sure loved the one mom made for me!) , but hate fooling with the size of a hoop! If you can stand the width all day and you love it, you will shine in it and everyone will love to see you shining in it!

Nevada...I knnnooooww...I am a bad girl! :beg (forgive me?) I harrassed :tap Belle all weekend about her natural inclination to gravitate toward calico cottons too! Lizzie will tell you though that I may make a face, I may try to bully you sweetly out of it:gg , but at the end of the day I love to see everyone wear what they love and are comfortable in! I have even taken my share of shameless taunts:lalala and given in to wearing undergarments to a shoot :help after swearing for a long time I never would! I would never really ( not too much really) try to convince anyone to wear something they are just not intrested in, I will shamelessly sugest the bustles the high necked collars and the fiddely bits...but I know thats me, and it may just not be you, and that is totally OK!! :tban :tban

We all have things we naturally gravitate toward, and I think we all get caught off gaurd now and then by the fabric, outfit, design ect that is so NOT us but that we now find ourselves in a serious state of WANT over!! LOL

[Lazy K]

Finally had some time to dig this up. This was one of my favorite dresses at EOT last year. This lady wore this hoop skirt like she was born to it.

And the colors on the dress you showed are wonderful. I have a dress planned, even have the fabric, for a dress in those colors.

[Kica Mandalay]

First off, I'm just glad to be a part of a group that has so many tastes, so much talent, so much laughter, and also rallies around when someone is hurt. We may not always understand each other, but it's these unique parts (threads) that make up the gorgeous weaves in the larger tapestry of the alley.

I'm actually humbled at how quickly you have all accepted me and have reached out to help me. Thanks.

And I don't feel my thread has been interrupted at all. It's allowed me to see another side of you ladies, and we're still communicating here, which is the important thing. If we went away to our corners sulking or in a huff, that would be the sin. As long as we agree to disagree, or at least keep our hands out in friendship, it is the important element amongst us.

I can't sew a straight line with thread -- so I have a long way to go before I can make and wear anything "decent" in public. If I can make stained glass windows, you'd think I could conquer a simple sears sewing machine in my guest bedroom. I shudder at making a corset, and for now, will have to buy/swap/beg for appropriate period clothing. (More on that in another thread)

Before investing too heavily in clothes that aren't normally worn at gatherings, I wanted to check with you Ladies since you've been doing this far longer than I, and have so much experience. Plus, I've seen those plates that you share and the photos of what you've made. Just incredible!! Truly!

And I guess the bottom line is, besides wanting to fit in, I want to have fun, too.

SO thank you again, to all of you.

Cowgirl hugs -

Kica


PS -- anyone got a corset that will shave 4" off of me???

[FrancesGrimble]

And that's where you and I differ. I've never been able to understand why women, who are usually the ones who do it rather than men, think conformity, or "fitting in," will gain them anything. But if that's what you want to do, go for it. I'm just saying that being different is not an insult to anyone.

Fran

[Bloomin']

Kica, did you win it?! Is that you? I hope so because you should wear what you LOVE and then you will truly shine!! Our sport is so wonderful in that it allows this freedom of costuming. I'm looking forward to seeing pictures of you having a great time in your beautiful gown and being happy :)

[Lazy K]

Well actually Frances, since you aren't a SASS shooter you probably didn't understand what Kica was asking. She was asking if it was appropriate to wear a Civil War gown to a SASS event. Just like a Civil War event or a Ren event, SASS covers a specific time period.
And yes, Kica, a Civil War period dress will make you "fit in" just fine!!!

[FrancesGrimble]

Actually, since most people on this group are making 1880s clothing, with forays into the 1870s and 1890s, and including some fantasy outfits, I did understand that that was what she was asking. But are there not official printed guidelines for what to wear to SASS?

Fran

[Nevada Skye]

No, except for specific shooting clothing requirements, we can basically wear what we want in lots of areas, 1860 to about 1910, silver screen, B Western, European or Indian costumes, etc. And that is how we like it, Costume Dictators are not appreciated in our fantasy sport/game. Courtesy, a fun attitude, helpful and kind is what many of us on the Alley like. We share our ideas, how to do things and helpful hints. We help each other even if it means the person we are helping might beat us in the shooting competition or a costume contest. We do not worry someone might "steal" our idea, and if someone copies my ideas I consider it the best form of flattery. It is called the Cowboy Way. I have to say, Frances, you have brought up the very first rudeness I have ever seen on the Alley. Of course I always seem to miss the Trolls that come through, they get whacked before I even know they are here.

[Jessie Lyn]

Kica - I hope you won. When you have attended as many SASS events as I have you will feel comfortable in almost every thing. That is one of the beauties of SASS. There is alot of latitude. As a matter of fact, if you are too period correct you might have a hard time shooting:lool :lool Wear what you feel comfortable. I decide "who" I am going to be the am when I get ready to shoot. I could be B-western, Classic cowgirl, victorian, VBS, or maybe just a split skirt...The important thing is that it doesn't matter. JUST HAVE FUN!!!!

Frances- if you read the SASS rule book you will find that there are very few rules as to attire except if you shoot B-western or Classic Cowboy/Cowgirl. There are very few things that are no-nos.

Boy, this is starting to sound like the mouse fart load posts or power factor posts on the SASS wire.:tap :tap

[Lady Leigh]

Kica!! So happy you won the gown ... I have some hoops if you need one! Let me know! I think I have 3 diferent hoop sizes.

[Nevada Skye]

Don't you think it looks like a lovely picnic dress? I think Kica should go with that theme and have a wonderful picnic all ready for us at EOT!!!:lool

PS: Let me know if you find a secret to squish 4 inches off one's waist......

[Kica Mandalay]

Kica - I hope you won. JUST HAVE FUN!!!!

Boy, this is starting to sound like the mouse fart load posts or power factor posts on the SASS wire.:tap :tap

OK, for all the curious minds -- yup, I won. (If I'm pretty in pink, do I get a dance with james spader??)
Will I wear it to EOT? Depends -- I *still* need the underthingies.....

And did someone mention moose??? (that's a real moose caught in alaska)

[Jessie Lyn]

:tban :tban :tban :tban

[FrancesGrimble]

It sounds a lot like the SCA, which is a group whose attitude, by and large, I've always liked. I certainly don't believe in "costume policing" people for "total authenticity," and I've never been called a "costume dictator." As for attending SASS events, unfortunately I live in a large urban area where horses are not permitted (or feasible), and guns are associated with drug gang wars.

I have, actually, offered a fair number of helpful hints on this group. For example, several recent posts explaining how a skirt grip works and how to arrange it. And posts on where to find hard-to-find supplies such as inexpensive hand-embroidered material. And posts on where to find Victorian-inspired clothing for daily wear.

I did not mean to accuse people on this group of stealing my text or illustrations (certainly not my ideas, since ideas are not even copyrightable). But this venue, like most of the net, is open to absolutely everyone who wants to read it, or copy material from it if they desire. You have to realize that writing, and related activities, are how I pay for my housing and groceries, and the only career I have. Yes, the sad fact is people have previously done things like take 2,000-word articles of mine published in magazines (to which the copyright was registered), and sell those articles to other magazines under their own names. People have done things like take material I posted on the net and put it in articles and other works, for which they collected payment, without even notifying me or providing attribution.

You might never even remotely consider doing such a thing, nor would any other member of this group. Unfortunately, that does not apply to everyone on the net. Anywhere on the net is the prime place for work to be stolen. This b-board is not merely open to a group of friends in the SASS, but to everyone in the world with a computer and an Internet connection.

So, professionally I have to be very careful what I display where, and consider, before putting it there, whether I or anyone else would ever want to use it in a publication. It's like locking your front door, or making sure not to leave your purse lying around in a public place. I just have to do it as a matter of habit, and it is not an insult to anyone. I understand that you may not have to protect your written work or your photos. But I do.

But, as I've said, I do, not infrequently, publish material I don't think I will ever need to use professionally. I also do try to be helpful.

Again, I think what you are seeing is that I have some different needs from yours, which, since my ability to earn my living depends on them, are very important to me. But that doesn't mean I'm "rude."

Fran



No, except for specific shooting clothing requirements, we can basically wear what we want in lots of areas, 1860 to about 1910, silver screen, B Western, European or Indian costumes, etc. And that is how we like it, Costume Dictators are not appreciated in our fantasy sport/game. Courtesy, a fun attitude, helpful and kind is what many of us on the Alley like. We share our ideas, how to do things and helpful hints. We help each other even if it means the person we are helping might beat us in the shooting competition or a costume contest. We do not worry someone might "steal" our idea, and if someone copies my ideas I consider it the best form of flattery. It is called the Cowboy Way. I have to say, Frances, you have brought up the very first rudeness I have ever seen on the Alley. Of course I always seem to miss the Trolls that come through, they get whacked before I even know they are here.

[Kaycee McCaylum]

In a word Frances no there is not. SASS is understood to all of it's members that it is a fantacy game. The basic time period is 1865 to 1899, but it also covers the B-Western period. And it does not put costuming as a first priority, so a shooter wearing a 1870 skirt and a 1890'2 mutton sleeve blouse would be as accepted as another shooter wearing a Dale Evans outfit.
There are those who spend an enormous ammount of time and effort to build their costumes, but not to be a reinactor. They do it to look good in the eyes of their peers, because to have someone tell you you look fantastic feels good. They don't need education or a resume of accomplishments to have a place in SASS. We judge our partisapation by the smiles that we bring to others and those that are given to us.
Fashion is something looked at in drawings for years, but does it compare to what the average person wears. If it does then I am screwed, because I have been wearing the same Wrangler jeans, boots and t-shirts for 30+ years. Personal taste dictates far more what a person wears more than what a designer draws up.
We post our feeling here on the alley in a friendly atmosphere, we take pride in every article of clothing made. If a photo is posted we enjoy it for what it is, someone is proud of what they created. Period correctness is not as much of an issue as is personal pride.
Most of us here are simple folks with simple needs. We enjoy life and the enjoyment it brings. If we poke some fun at a bucket hat, it is because we want to roll on the floor laughing when the wearer walks into a pole cause the can't see where they are going.
I do leather carving and don't care if it is true to the period, it is true to me.
And that is something that I am prod to share. If someone steals the idea, well cool, I am proud that someone else liked it too.

So lets keep the alley clean, so we all have a place to enjoy life.

KC

[Jessie Lyn]

If you are interested Frances, there are several CAS clubs in your area and several more within a short driving distance. We shoot in Manteca several times a month and at least 1/2 of the attendees are from the Bay area. Oh, and most SASS events are not mounted events.

[FrancesGrimble]

Again, that sounds like the SCA--well, in some ways the earlier years of the SCA, as an organization.

I'm just not into posting things to show off because I'm proud of them, because, as I've said, for me things like that are work. I certainly don't have any objection to other people doing it recreationally though.

I'm not quite sure what you mean by simple people with simple needs. Most people strike me as being pretty complicated, as do most social groups. I grew up in a rather impoverished rural mining and truck-farming community, and it was far from simple.

But, the idea of no hidden agendas is 100% great with me and I endorse it heartily. I hate it when people don't say what they mean, and constantly take little snipes at each other and indulge in innuendos, in ways they can't be called on. So, I'm very glad to hear you say that that is not what this b-board is about; and I will do, as I've always done, my level best to be up front about everything.

I also am 100% enthusiastic about the idea of other people sewing, and I'd say more, but my husband is running the vacuum cleaner about a foot away from me which is distracting.

Fran


In a word Frances no there is not. SASS is understood to all of it's members that it is a fantacy game. The basic time period is 1865 to 1899, but it also covers the B-Western period. And it does not put costuming as a first priority, so a shooter wearing a 1870 skirt and a 1890'2 mutton sleeve blouse would be as accepted as another shooter wearing a Dale Evans outfit.
There are those who spend an enormous ammount of time and effort to build their costumes, but not to be a reinactor. They do it to look good in the eyes of their peers, because to have someone tell you you look fantastic feels good. They don't need education or a resume of accomplishments to have a place in SASS. We judge our partisapation by the smiles that we bring to others and those that are given to us.
Fashion is something looked at in drawings for years, but does it compare to what the average person wears. If it does then I am screwed, because I have been wearing the same Wrangler jeans, boots and t-shirts for 30+ years. Personal taste dictates far more what a person wears more than what a designer draws up.
We post our feeling here on the alley in a friendly atmosphere, we take pride in every article of clothing made. If a photo is posted we enjoy it for what it is, someone is proud of what they created. Period correctness is not as much of an issue as is personal pride.
Most of us here are simple folks with simple needs. We enjoy life and the enjoyment it brings. If we poke some fun at a bucket hat, it is because we want to roll on the floor laughing when the wearer walks into a pole cause the can't see where they are going.
I do leather carving and don't care if it is true to the period, it is true to me.
And that is something that I am prod to share. If someone steals the idea, well cool, I am proud that someone else liked it too.

So lets keep the alley clean, so we all have a place to enjoy life.

KC

[FrancesGrimble]

If you are interested Frances, there are several CAS clubs in your area and several more within a short driving distance. We shoot in Manteca several times a month and at least 1/2 of the attendees are from the Bay area. Oh, and most SASS events are not mounted events.

I'd be more interested in the horses than the guns. I grew up with a hunting-hating, animal-loving father. We always had big dogs, and we had a timber wolf. I understand dogs. Horses, some of our neighbors had them and I probably could have cadged more riding time on them than I did, or even gotten one; but my parents were always afraid I'd fall off and break my neck or something or something. So, I don't really understand the horse as an animal. But my father taught me a lot about animals--he goes out and does things like feed hungry skunks in the winter, without ever getting sprayed--so maybe I could do that someday.

Fran

[Kaycee McCaylum]

Fran,

Thank you, the tone in your last two posts is written in a much friendly way. That is what we were waiting for.

Your contributions are greatly appreciated, and welcomed. But just remember to write like you are talking to a friend.

Thanks
KC

[Jessie Lyn]

Come join us in Manteca sometime. We only shoot steel.:lool :lool

[Kica Mandalay]

Miss Lazy K --
I want to thank you for posting that picture of the lady from the other EOT. It did much to relieve my fears of being able to wear anything that seems to fit the time period. And of course, when I'm shooting I will have to dress differently (I can't picture my new .38's on my hips over those hoops!)

Hmm, did someone say PICNIC? Is that like a PARTY?? :tban I sure hope to be able to meet many of you in person as I attend some of these functions.

And if I DO manage to get 4" off my waist, I will certainly patent the secret and sell it on late-night TV!! :rofl

[Nevada Skye]

Kica, are you coming down to shoot Eldorado in October for the state Championships? You can certainly treat us to a party, I mean picnic, then in your beautious new dress!! And I won't scare you by telling of the time the lady got stuck in the stall in her hoop dress and we had to lean over, pull it upside down, and lead her out, nope, won't tell you about that!!:lool :lool :lool

[Lazy K]

Miss Lazy K --
I want to thank you for posting that picture of the lady from the other EOT. It did much to relieve my fears of being able to wear anything that seems to fit the time period. And of course, when I'm shooting I will have to dress differently (I can't picture my new .38's on my hips over those hoops!)

:rofl

You're welcome. I think you you like what you are wearing, you'll look great in it. I'll be at EOT so I'll be looking for you.

[Accurate Allie]

Kica, I think that is a lovely dress and if you really like it you should wear it, hoops are fun to wear!!

[Lady Leigh]

Don't forget to keep your hands in front of you on your skirt when you sit down ... don't want to have the skirt fly up and hit you in the face!:rofl

Oh! Also go through door openings carefully, too! :rofl

[Garnet Rose]

When wearing a hoop it is also helpful to wear an undergarment like Heather's combination: http://trulyvictorian.netfirms.com/catalog/105.html

Less to wrestle with when you're in the ladies' room.

[Bloomin']

The gal that wore the hoop to shoot in at the NC State Match said it was easy to wear her holsters. They just snugged down right over the first hoop and were very comfortable. That shoot was on a common line though so there weren't any doors to go through. I never asked her about the ladies' room issue.:rofl

[Allie Mo]

Hello,

I was wondering about the ladies room too (porta potty). Will it fit in the small ones or must you use a handicap version? Luckily, they do have some of them at EOT.

:confused:

Kica, now that we know it's yours we'll be bugging you for :ss of you in it. :waiting Congratuulations!

[Jessie Lyn]

Also be careful reaching out in front...the back tends to pop up:faint :faint .

Allie- The handicap portapotties work well. I have some hoops if you want them. I wore them when I first got into this and haven't wore them in about 10 years.

[Allie Mo]

Also be careful reaching out in front...the back tends to pop up:faint :faint .

Allie- The handicap portapotties work well. I have some hoops if you want them. I wore them when I first got into this and haven't wore them in about 10 years.Hi Jessie,

:ty for the offer. However, that would require buying more material. I'm in the use-what-you've-got mode until we move. Someday, I may make one.

Hugs,

[FrancesGrimble]

If it is not a handicapped portapotty or stall, the trick is to back into it, so you don't have to turn yourself and the hoop around in a tight and possibly not very clean area.

As for the combinations--well, they are more usual for the 1870s and later anyway. During the hoop era drawers were more usual. But the important thing is that they have an open crotch. The problem is, especially if you are wearing a corset, here you are with the waistband of your modern underwear pinned down under the corset, plus the waistband of your hoopskirt and your crinoline and your petticoats. You might not be able to get your underwear down.

It might help to wear some bikini style of underwear that fits low around your hips. I haven't tried that, since I always feel that style is falling off me so I never wear it.

Anyway, if you end up having to make drawers it doesn't take too much material and since no one is going to see them anyway you don't have to use anything fancy.

The other thing is, open crotch Edwardian drawers work perfectly well. If you can pick up a pair cheap on eBay, that might be the thing. I haven't priced them recently but there are a lot of vintage drawers around, and people tend not to want to buy them as much as fancier garments. So you just might be able to get a bargain.

Fran

[Allie Mo]

Hi Fran,

:ty for the tips.

Regards,

[Kica Mandalay]

Oh my gosh -- hoops smacking me in the forhead? Flying up and hitting me in the back of the head?
getting stuck in the loo? Being rescued out of the porty potty????
Open crotch drawers???:scared

What have I gotten myself into??????? EEEEEEKKKKKKKKKKK!!!!!!! :go

How am I gonna get into and out of the TRUCK???!!! :faint

Methinks I will wear my every-day work clothes -- cowboy boots, shirt, wranglers and hat!

Hmm, ok Ladies -- I will have to walk with my hands on my body at all times, eh? Gosh won't I look silly!
Francis -- thanks for those ideas. I sure do appreciate it. I will hie me back to ebay and go a-shopping....

Something tells me that I should use my tax money and order that taffeta bustle gown that Nellie pointed out -- and then borrow a bustle....

Maybe I should go on that LA shopping trip after all, now that i brought the sewing machine back into the house from storage..... sigh.

OK, anyone seen a saloon girl outfit on ebay -- the naughty side of me wants to come and play today...... :grin

[Allie Mo]

:fun :lool

[Lady Leigh]

Don't sweat it, Kica!!! Just think of all the stories you'll have to pass around!

[Nellie Blue]

Kica....I'll have an extra bustle you can use so don't sweat that part.

Speaking of period correct drawers and restrooms (this wouldn't apply to a porta-potti...)....BOYS CLOSE YOUR EARS!!!

I learned something way back when I attended Mule Camp a few years ago and I never got a chance to try it because I've never had split drawers until recently....but when you have split drawers and a trained bustle dress, you can FACE the toilet and straddle it....works REALLYwell!!! :tban :tban

One other note about trains and restrooms...when you leave, make sure you're not dragging toilet paper! :rofl :rofl

[Madame Olive Yew]

:rofl :rofl :ty Nellie for the tip!! :lool :rofl I'll have to try that.....:rofl :rofl

[Madame Olive Yew]

Aside from the cat fight, I love the dress. I have always admired the hoop era, (that little bit of Scarlet O'hara in me) but feel I personally wouldnt do well with it. If you feel beautiful in it, you will be beautiful in it. Have fun, costuming should be about making you happy, not anyone else.

BTW, I am so jealous of all of ya'll goin to EOT.:gg

[Ida Hands]

Speaking of period correct drawers and restrooms (this wouldn't apply to a porta-potti...)....BOYS CLOSE YOUR EARS!!!

I learned something way back when I attended Mule Camp a few years ago and I never got a chance to try it because I've never had split drawers until recently....but when you have split drawers and a trained bustle dress, you can FACE the toilet and straddle it....works REALLYwell!!! :tban :tban

One other note about trains and restrooms...when you leave, make sure you're not dragging toilet paper! :rofl :rofl


WHEW! I always wondered! :rofl :rofl :lool

[Ida Hands]

Speaking of period correct drawers and restrooms (this wouldn't apply to a porta-potti...)....BOYS CLOSE YOUR EARS!!!

I learned something way back when I attended Mule Camp a few years ago and I never got a chance to try it because I've never had split drawers until recently....but when you have split drawers and a trained bustle dress, you can FACE the toilet and straddle it....works REALLYwell!!! :tban :tban

One other note about trains and restrooms...when you leave, make sure you're not dragging toilet paper! :rofl :rofl

WHEW! I always wondered. :lool :lool

Aside from the cat fight, I love the dress. I have always admired the hoop era, (that little bit of Scarlet O'hara in me) but feel I personally wouldnt do well with it. If you feel beautiful in it, you will be beautiful in it. Have fun, costuming should be about making you happy, not anyone else.

BTW, I am so jealous of all of ya'll goin to EOT.:gg

I'm Jealous too!

[Greeneyed Gypsy]

Nellie if that dont earn you a new tag....Hughs just losin his touch:faint Now excuse me while I catch my breath from laughing!! :lool :lool :lool :lool :rofl :rofl :rofl :lalala

I can hear Lizzie now...TMI TMI TMI TMI TMI :lalala Hee heheheheh

Oh thats was good! I do like to start the day with a good chuckle!

hoop thoughts, they just kinds bend out of the way for driving, remember the information about women treking out west and making a big circle for others for modesty, then they would have their potty breaks out on the prairie? No tress for miles! Be thankful for them porta potties!

[Kica Mandalay]

hoop thoughts, they just kinds bend out of the way for driving, remember the information about women treking out west and making a big circle for others for modesty, then they would have their potty breaks out on the prairie? No tress for miles! Be thankful for them porta potties!

Oh I can see it now -- Belle wagon trains all in a circle in lovely calicos and colors.... Oh heavens GG! If I fall down in a hoop, can I get up?? :lool
:rofl:rofl:rofl:rofl:rofl