Ok but how did the Edwardians WASH these dresses?
202KOkay guys, I have a confession to make: I am absolutely obsessed with historical fashion. The intricate detailing, the luxurious fabrics, the stunning silhouettes – I could spend hours poring over old photographs and illustrations of the styles of yesteryear. So, when I stumbled upon a video titled “Ok but how did the Edwardians WASH these dresses?”, you better believe I clicked on it faster than you can say “corset.”
For those of you who are unfamiliar with the term, the Edwardian era refers to the period from 1901 to 1910, which coincided with the reign of King Edward VII in the United Kingdom. This was a time of tremendous change and innovation, particularly in the realm of fashion. The Edwardian era was known for its elaborate and opulent clothing, characterized by high necklines, puffed sleeves, and nipped-in waists. Women’s dresses were often adorned with intricate lace, delicate embroidery, and lavish trimmings.
So, back to the burning question at hand: how did the Edwardians wash these dresses? I mean, with all those delicate fabrics and embellishments, it seems like a monumental task to keep these garments clean and pristine. Well, let’s dive into the world of Edwardian laundering and find out!
First and foremost, it’s important to note that laundry practices in the Edwardian era were vastly different from what we’re used to today. There were no washing machines or dry cleaners – everything was done by hand. And when it came to cleaning delicate fabrics like silk, lace, and satin, extreme care and attention to detail were required.
One common method of washing clothes in the Edwardian era was to boil them in a large cauldron or pot over an open fire. This was a labor-intensive process that involved scrubbing the garments with soap and water, rinsing them thoroughly, and then boiling them to remove any remaining dirt and grime. It was a time-consuming and physically demanding task, but it was essential for keeping clothes clean and hygienic.
When it came to washing delicate fabrics like silk and lace, special care was required. These fabrics were often washed by hand in lukewarm water with a gentle soap or detergent. Agitation had to be kept to a minimum to avoid damaging the delicate fibers, and the garments were rinsed several times to ensure that all of the soap was removed. Once the washing process was complete, the clothes were carefully laid flat to dry, often on a clean towel or sheet.
But what about those elaborate Edwardian gowns with all of their intricate embellishments? How were they cleaned without ruining the delicate detailing? Well, the answer lies in the art of spot cleaning. If a garment had particularly delicate or ornate embellishments, such as embroidery or beading, it was often spot cleaned rather than subjected to a full wash. This involved carefully dabbing at the stained area with a damp cloth or sponge, being careful not to rub or scrub too vigorously.
Another common method of cleaning delicate garments in the Edwardian era was to take them to a professional laundress or dressmaker. These skilled individuals were trained in the art of laundering delicate fabrics and were able to clean and care for clothing in ways that the average person could not. They often used specialized techniques and products to ensure that clothes were cleaned thoroughly and safely.
Of course, washing wasn’t the only consideration when caring for Edwardian clothing. Storing and preserving these garments was also of utmost importance. Many Edwardian women kept their dresses in specially made garment bags or boxes to protect them from dust, moths, and other pests. Some even went so far as to line their storage containers with acid-free paper to prevent yellowing and discoloration.
So, there you have it – a glimpse into the world of Edwardian laundry. The next time you find yourself admiring a stunning Edwardian gown in a museum or vintage shop, take a moment to appreciate the care and attention to detail that went into keeping it clean and beautiful. And remember, while we may have washing machines and dry cleaners at our disposal today, there’s something truly special about the handmade and personalized care that went into laundering garments in the Edwardian era.
As for me, I’ll be over here dreaming of a time when laundry was a labor of love and a true art form. Who knows, maybe I’ll even break out the cauldron and scrub brush one of these days – you never know when a good Edwardian dress might need a little TLC!
