I am happy to be a woman, born in the 1960s, who was given so many choices and encouraged in all that I have chosen to do throughout life. I do not wish I was living in the 1800s. But why I am drawn to things like this?
I adore this cape. Yes, I probably think I would look like the model if I wear it….or perhaps I have visions of walking along the English countryside in it, but I love it nevertheless. (If you look closely, the model is wearing spandex – not me!) I don’t think I would wear it, but I do think my daughters would look cute in it. And, in a practical sense, it would be a nice jacket to wear over the formal dresses my daughter wears for her concerts. The jacket pattern is from BurdaStyle. I love their fashions and the patterns are copyright free. This means I could make and sell this cape. I think it would be a fun item to sell in my Etsy shop. Someday….
Why would a modern woman like myself love to read Jane Austen? Why do I love the Austen movies? And Becoming Jane ranks as one of my favorites! (James Mcavoy!!!) I think her stories are timeless. When you get down to the nuts and bolts of human relationships, some things never change. Recently, I have been reading works by Elizabeth Gaskell, including Cranford, Wives and Daughters and Ruth. There are wonderful BBC productions of the first two. Ruth is the story of a single mother – and this was written in the 1800s! It is a touching and, at times, heart wrenching story. Reading these books also makes me appreciate my life today.
Check out this post about the Dickensian Festival over at the fantastic blog Even Venus. I think it would be great fun! I could even dress the part…but for now, I’ll pull on my jeans and wool socks.
Jane, I’ve always thought I was born in the wrong time! But then again, for all of my interest in older (timeless) styles and methods, and doing things the old fashioned way, I realize that I’m just too spunky and opinionated to have survived in another era. I am a direct descendant of Anne Hutchinson, who was a bit of a hellion in her time and I suspect if I had lived back then I would have been just as unorthodox as she was. Anne would have fit in perfectly now, but she was ahead of her time. Anyway I love the cape, and I think you should make one for yourself and wear it. I would! I’m also a huge Jane Austen fan. The BBC production of Pride & Prejudice is my favorite (Colin Firth!), but I have been mesmerized by all of Jane’s work. In fact, it’s one of my life goals to read her entire body of works. I’m nearly there, but not quite. 🙂
I agree with you about James Mcavoy- he’s one of the only drool-worthy actors out there right now! I totally watch movies with him just to stare in wonder that is the beauty of his face. And I love Jane Austen movies, but never have been able to get into her books… I must try again soon!
I love Jane Austen! I pretty much have an Austen novel on my iPod at all times, just in case I need a fix while driving. There’s something about the language and manner of delivering it that is completely wonderful!
(Yeah, I’m a total dork!)
Well, we must sisters, because I was born at the wrong time too! I think that is why I love vintage so much!
That cape is gorgeous, and the sultry-looking model gives it extra pizazz. I can see why you adore it. I love the Austen movies, too.
Jane, Abbey and I found a cape like that for her at a second hand shop…it goes with everything she wears…looks so cute with jeans, but could go over just what you said…a dressy outfit..it’s gray herringbone fabric. I LOVE it on her. It makes every outfit look more pulled together and very fashionable!
Can’t wait to see what you come up with.
I think that I would have done well to be born in the 1400’s because if The Tudors is any indication, my butt would look totally fab in those gowns!!
Oh, I agree with you. I wish I was born in the forties, but only for the clothing, black and white photography and red lipstick!! Hello from PEAR and Bee Wise Bags!
I’m quite sure that Marie and I over at French Picnic were born in the wrong era too. Have a great day!