by Cari

There is no denying that this Halloween will be atypical since we are still needing to maintain social distance due to COVID-19.  I've been contemplating how to celebrate the season myself. I have always loved costuming and celebrating Halloween. So, I don't just want to give up on it entirely this year since there is not a social aspect to look forward to. 

And, for the past year or two I've been in a between-phase with a young teen who is almost "too big" for trick or treating, but too young for missing out.  We have gone back and forth with going out or staying in.  Luckily, we live in an area where whole families participate and adults and kids alike fill the streets on Hallows Eve. We have alternated between hosting friends (to watch scary movies, play games, and eat treats) and hitting the streets ourselves. 

Reflecting on this I have been thinking about how to celebrate this year since gathering indoors doesn't seem like a great option and trick-or-treating is not a given either.  It may just be a themed movie night at home this year! I can always enjoy the costumes I see on the screen.

Since we haven't been able to go out to see movies, plays, music, etc in a while; I have enjoyed quite a few movies and TV series at home. I though it would be fun to look at some popular shows and movies that I have enjoyed this year for some inspiration.  I often find myself watching and noticing costumes that are "just like" some of the Folkwear Patterns.  

I recently got really caught up in Masterpiece Theater's Poldark.  The first garment that immediately screamed Folkwear was a cloak much like our Kinsale Cloak!  Later in the series the Empire Dress continued to grace the screen.

Cloak image from Pinterest from Poldark

Empire Dress from Poldark on Pinterest

The Peaky Blinders 1920's style is an eyeful.  Here is a coat that is so very similar to our Spectator Coat.  Gorgeous!

And don't forget the Victorian Shirt, Vintage Vest and Countryside Frock Coat!

Self Made: Inspired by the Life of Madam C.J. Walker features similar menswear mentioned above.  There were multiple suits worn by Octavia Spencer as Madame CJ Walker that remind me of our Traveling Suit. There were quite a few references to the Gibson Girl in this film as well.  

Also, the costuming of the movie Colette was gorgeous! The split skirt worn by Kiera Knightly when riding a bike and walking in the part is "just like" our 231 Big Sky Riding Skirt. 

Split skirt (or riding skirt) which can be worn as pants or a skirt (buttons down the side) is such a clever design!

What are your Halloween plans?  Are you dressing up?  Do you love to make costumes?  What films and shows inspire you? 

Let us know!