What did it really take to achieve the fashionable Victorian silhouette? The answer may surprise you.
Join us at for “Victorian Secrets,” an engaging and entertaining presentation by Leslie Bellais, former Curator of Social History at the Wisconsin Historical Museum, on Saturday, July 18, at 1:00 p.m. at Heritage Village, 2041 Michigan Street, Sturgeon Bay.
Made possible through a generous grant from the Raibrook Foundation, this fascinating program explores the hidden world of Victorian women’s fashion and the undergarments that made it possible. Bellais will reveal the secrets behind tiny Victorian waists, explain the purpose of corsets, petticoats, bustles, and other foundation garments, and examine how clothing reflected the social expectations, technology, and daily lives of women during the Victorian era. She will also discuss the differences between the fashions and lifestyles of urban and rural women, offering a glimpse into everyday life in the late nineteenth century.
Bellais served for nearly 30 years as Curator of Social History at the Wisconsin Historical Museum, where she cared for one of the state’s finest collections of historic clothing, textiles, jewelry, and decorative arts. Throughout her career, she has become known for bringing history to life through engaging presentations that connect everyday objects with the people who used them. Her extensive research into historic dress and material culture has made her a sought-after speaker throughout Wisconsin.
“Victorian fashion was about much more than appearances,” said Wendy Wagner, Heritage Village Site Manager. “The clothing people wore reflected changing ideas about society, technology, and the roles of women. Leslie Bellais has an incredible ability to make those stories both fascinating and accessible. This promises to be an entertaining afternoon for anyone interested in history, fashion, or Victorian life.”
The program is free with paid admission to Heritage Village. Admission is $6 for adults and $3 for children, and includes access to Heritage Village’s historic buildings, exhibits, demonstrations, and grounds. Visitors are encouraged to arrive early or stay after the presentation to explore the village and experience Door County’s history firsthand.
“Victorian Secrets” is one of many special programs offered throughout the season at Heritage Village, providing visitors with unique opportunities to learn about history through expert speakers, demonstrations, and hands-on experiences.
For more information, call the Door County Historical Society at (920) 421-2332 or visit doorcountyhistoricalsociety.org.