The 18th century riding habit was composed of three pieces, petticoat, waistcoat and jacket. The riding habit was worn for day wear and travel, as well as actual horseback riding. This pattern, c. 1770, is for waistcoat with half-belt and jacket. Diagrams and instructions are included for a plain petticoat. Available in sizes 8-24, one size per pattern.
1770's Riding Habit
This original pattern is based on two extant riding habits, one in the collection of The Victoria and Albert Museum, one in the collection of The Hereford Museum and Art Gallery, Hereford, England. Both of these extant habits have pettioats intended for walking and travel, not for actual horseback riding.
This 1770's habit has narrow lapels, short skirts on the jacket with functional pockets, and a short waist coat with optional half belt.
This particular habit has embellished buttons and buttonholes, like the original habit in London. Embellishments for your habit may be obtained by contacting ftippetts@icloud.com. Embellishments are not required, but a trimming option. Buttonholes may also be outlined with metallic tape, or left plain.
Please note that this is a very close fitting waistcoat and jacket. It is designed to be worn over stays and will not fit a modern figure wearing modern undergarments. Making a fitting muslin is strongly advised before cutting your fashion fabric.
This pattern is recommended for those with intermediate to advanced sewing skills.
Depending on size, and whether or not you are making a waistcoat, your habit will require 5 - 7 yd. of 54" fabric, 1 yd. osnaburg for backs, 3 yd. 45" lining. 3 yd. 45" heavy cotton muslin or twill for fitting muslins, waistcoat and jacket only.
Notions: 36 5/8" buttons for jacket, 8 buttons for waistcoat, plus 2 to fasten half-belt. 6 pair #3 hooks and eyes.
