In Timely Fashion--Dressing in Anne's Style~Everyday!

"Oh, Marilla! Look at the puffs!" While Anne went into raptures over the size of her puffed sleeves, we would probably have to conclude that grocery shopping in such appendages would be ridiculous! Perhaps you, like me, love the clothing worn by Anne in Anne of Green Gables and The Sequel*, and have wondered "How can I dress in the fashions from the films on a daily basis, while remaining 'sensible' in Marilla's eyes?"

For the purpose of this article, I have concentrated on the older Anne from The Sequel. The clothing styles of the late Victorian and early Edwardian eras are very easily adapted to modern wear. There may be times when you want to wear an authentic reproduction from the film if you are attending a special event. But for everyday wear, I prefer the romantic style of the late Victorian period that has a vintage look, yet doesn't appear as if you just stepped off the set.

To start, choose a simple gored skirt. If you prefer to sew your own, walking skirt patterns are available from Sense and Sensibility, Folkwear and Butterick. In the film, Anne's skirts are shown in solids, plaids or tweeds, but we could choose a lovely floral fabric as well. A skirt that swirls around your ankles is the perfect length -you don't want it floor-length for everyday wear. [Editor's note: My Edwardian walking skirt, with its demi-train is most impractical in snow and rain! And wet ankles aren't pleasant…!] Suggested fabrics for your skirt include lightweight wools or heavy cottons. You want the fabric to be heavy enough to hang nicely, but not so heavy that it won't drape. And don't forget to add a lace-trimmed petticoat underneath!

If you would rather purchase a skirt instead of making one, a couple of examples can be found at Victorian Trading Co.

Wouldn't Anne love this ensemble from Victorian Trading Company?

		Next, add a high-necked blouse in lightweight cotton or linen. Once again, Folkwear and Butterick offer several patterns to choose from. I've also found two blouses that can be purchased from Victorian Trading Co. that would work perfectly. If sewing your own, you can embellish your blouse with lace and tucks or keep it plain and simple, whichever you prefer. [Note: Premier Clothing also carries the skirts and blouses.]
This blouse from Victorian Trading Co. (right) looks almost identical to the one worn by Anne in the photo on the left.

Like most young women, Anne loved to dress in the latest fashions, perhaps even more so because she didn't have pretty clothes until she came to Green Gables. Even then, at first Marilla made her dress "plain and sensible" without any of the embellishments that her beauty-deprived heart craved. Once Anne became a teacher, she adopted the trends of the time, like vests, starched collars, and ties. These styles were popularized by the illustrations of artists including Harrison Fisher and Charles Dana Gibson. Heading into the workforce in droves, women were asserting more independence than had been shown in the Victorian era, and throughout history. The tailored shirtwaist, styled after a man's shirt, was a staple in the working girl's wardrobe. However, accompanied by lace, ruffles, and long skirts, the 'Gibson Girl' who epitomized independence in her era bespeaks ultimate femininity today. You might consider adding a vest to accent your outfit, or you may tie a ribbon bow around your neck to replicate this style. The jewelry worn by Anne in The Sequel is simple-- a brooch or pin at the throat of a high-necked blouse or a small string of pearls given to her by Matthew. There are many reproduction pins and brooches available to purchase. Often, you can find pretty brooches at flea markets or antique sales. I picked one up a few years ago at an antique sale for five dollars. The clasp was broken and a couple of the jet beads were missing, but I was able to have it repaired at very little expense. Or, perhaps an aunt or grandmother has something suitable that she no longer wears. For your ears, pearl studs or a pair of classic gold earrings would look lovely.
	This blouse from Victorian Trading Co is a wonderful example of how to transform a tailored blouse into a look Anne would wear by adding a brooch and a string of pearls.

	Anne Shirley style

To complete your outfit, lace-up shoes or "granny" boots are readily available in a wide-range of prices, and can either be bought new or second-hand through eBay and thrift shops. Add a knitted cardigan as you head outdoors, and you'll be ready to meet Diana and head off for another adventure!

*The film was titled The Sequel in Canada and Anne of Avonlea in the U.S.

Recommended Sources

Here are a few sources that I've found which offer items to help you recreate Anne's style.

Patterns

Sense and Sensibility