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Portraying a dressmaker of any decade from 1850-1900, Rosellen Alexander teaches a class on cloths-making techniques of the past. Rosellen uses hand-sewing as well as the latest technological wonder of the time, the hand-cranked Singer sewing machine. She demonstrates a fine hand at embroidery and at spinning, using both a drop spindle and a spinning wheel.
In a classroom setting, Rosellen demonstrates how clothing affects how women are perceived by others and how society perceives women through the demands of fashion. Corsets, hoops, high-heels, hijab and burqas are used to show girls how to recognize fashion that empowers from fashion the imprisons and even endangers its wearers. There is nothing pejorative about any particular fashion, just the recognition of what it means and what it tells about its wearer.
The Little Dames School
Although a common feature in 19th century America, the specific training of young ladies (12 years and up) in the womanly arts has been long abandoned -- until now. For those living in the Washington, D. C. metro area, RTL personnel in Silver Spring, MD will teach small groups of young ladies sewing, spinning, embroidery, as well as women's history from ancient through modern times.
Sessions and prices are yet to be determined and will be based on interest and availability. If you have questions please contact Ellen Wilds at 301-565-2359.
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