Whether you choose to dress up in Regency-era attire, 1867 attire, or Summer Garden Party attire, dressing for a promenade is fun, and may take a little planning.  Here are some tips on how to Dress for a Promenade:

For a Summer Promenade, be prepared for warm weather, sun exposure, and insects.
For a Fall or Spring Promenade, be prepared for cooler weather where a light coat, pelisse, or shawl would offer more coverage.

Here are a few recommended items:
1.  A Parasol or Umbrella: to protect complextions from getting ruddy!
2.  A Bonnet or Top Hat: these offers further protection from the sun.
3.  Wrist-length Gloves would have been worn when outside (likely white/cream coloured).

About Regency Era Promenade Costume:
Regency Promenade dress would typically consist of:
For Ladies:  Varying from a simple (usually cotton or other natural fibre) to more elaborate empire-waisted dresses usually with long sleeves (short or elbow length examples exist), and was often worn with a “Spencer Jacket“, “Pelisse“, or shawl.  Other accessories include flat shoes, a fan, and a Reticule.

For Gentlemen:
A Top Hat (or straw option), cotton chemise and cravat, vest, tailcoat (lighter fabrics for Summer), breeches or trousers, stockings, and oxford-style shoes or riding boots.

Here’s more Regency costume inspiration.

If you would like a custom-made Regency-era outfit (I know some people!), if you would like to inquire about renting a costume, or for assistance in sourcing any items, please contact Lady Jane Productions.

About 1867 Dress:

In honour of Canada’s 150th Anniversary of Confederation, you may want to promenade in the dress of this day.  Because there were many types of dress available in 1867, there are many options available.  A Google image search for 1867 dress will yield many results, as will a Pinterest search.

Here is my 1867 Pinterest board to help you get inspired:

Lady Jane’s 1867 Pinterest Board

and
An 1867 depiction of a Victorian Gentleman’s Summer Dress

About Summer Garden Party Attire:

Grab a Summer Hat, and some cool, comfortable, and slightly dressy clothing, and you’re good to go!
When it comes to dressing for a garden party, there’s no need to overcomplicate things, but if you want to wear a big hat and spectacular sunnies…

Summer Garden Party Attire Inspiration

 

For further assistance in sourcing any items, please contact Lady Jane Productions.