In this article we’ll explore the fashions of the 1700s and the wonderful period costumes designed by Terry Dresbach and the team in the costume department on Outlander, beginning with the clothing typically worn in the Scottish Highlands.
While the Scottish warriors were known for their kilts, in cold weather they wore outfits consisting of pants, shirt, vest, stock, and coat. A belt, dirk and boots completed the look.
Scottish women’s clothing in the Highlands was similar to what was worn in England and other parts of Western Europe at that time. A typical outfit included a shift (doubling as a night gown), stays or a corset reinforced with whalebone or cane, padding of some sort that accentuated the hips to obtain the desired hourglass shape, and a petticoat. A dress, or a skirt with a long-sleeved form-fitting top, or a day jacket, and a sturdy pair of leather shoes completed the outfit. An apron would be added when working.
When outdoors, a shawl or a tartan held in place with a belt was added for warmth. Married women generally wore a bonnet to cover their hair, while young women did not. [1] Claire, being a modern woman, did not hide her curly locks.
Season 1: The wedding of Jamie and Claire was the highlight of the season, due in part to their stunning wedding attire.
Claire’s gorgeous wedding dress, ‘that Ned Gowan bought for a shilling in a brothel’ in the series, was created by the immensely talented Terry Dresbach. This dreamy gown, with its silver-embroidered leaves and acorns, mica chips to provide glimmer in candlelight, and the volume of fabric (weighing in at 30 pounds), is truly magical and fit for a princess. [2]
Jamie is the ultimate warrior prince, clothed in full Highland dress, complete with ruffled sleeves, a green coat to match his plaid, the Fraser brooch, and his sword. His outfit is only enhanced by his gorgeous copper curls. He is a vision of elegant masculinity that would have surely made his mother proud.
Season 2:
Originating in Paris in the mid-18th century, “The Rococo period was the last major aristocratic movement in France. During this period, the wealthy indulged in partying, pretty things, and pleasure.” [3] It was a startling change from Lallybroch, where Lord and Lady Broch Tuarach had come from
Clothing during this time was excessive—a style without rules. Richly embroidered fabrics, distinctive features like large hooped skirts called panniers, eroticism, opulence, and excessive luxury all define the clothing of this time. [3] Jamie brought his own sense of style with a fusion of Scottish and French couture.
Season 3
Jamaica, under the rule of the British in 1767, “relied heavily upon styles brought back from Europe, and more especially London.” Clothing for everyday use was made of linen or cotton because of the climate. [4]
Formal events called for more elegant attire. For men, embroidered waistcoats of woolen broadcloth or silk, a white shirt, breeches made of velvet, buckle shoes, and powdered wigs were standard. For women, elaborate gowns in the Rococo style made of silk, with ruffles around the elbows and frills along the hem, were in fashion. [4]
Check Part Two by clicking this link : Part Two
References:
[1] Culloden Battlefield, WordPress: Highland Women’s Clothing in the Mid-18th Century
[2] Outlander Cast: Costumes: The Wedding
[3] Study.com: Rococo History Fashion and Design
[4] Epochs of Fashion: History of Rococo
