Victorian women use these 3 simple tricks to look beautiful, are you ahead of the times?


Victorian women use these 3 simple tricks to look beautiful, are you ahead of the times?
1) FAKE HAIR

Want to frame your face with the perfect fringe and sidelocks, but don’t want to cut your hair or risk burning it off with curling tongs? You need a hairpiece.
Using real human hair (don’t ask where it’s from!), a hairpiece is the easy way to complete your look, whether you wear it under your day bonnet for a stroll around town, or with a lovely decorative comb for the evening. Just make sure to match your hairpiece exactly to the colour of your hair.
2) CAGE CRINOLINE

First patented in 1856, this lightweight factory-made contraption gives all the bounce your skirts could need, and makes your waist look tiny by comparison. And if you need a little help with the top half of your outfit, just add some padding. Everyone does it!
3) GIGANTIC SLEEVES

Want to make your waist look even smaller? Big sleeves are the answer! Pagoda sleeves are wide and roomy. Worn with a bell-shaped crinoline-supported skirt, and with a delicate ruched detail at the front of the waist, this dress does everything to give you the fashionable figure of the 1860s.
Even better, pair pagoda sleeves with engageants – false sleeves that make it look as though you’re wearing tons of fabric, when really you’re not! No overheating for you.
Latest News
- Local school children make their own Melsonby Hoard!
- Aesthetica Art Prize celebrates its twentieth year with new exhibition at York Art Gallery opening July 2026.
- Summer at York Castle Museum: Historic Victorian Galas and nostalgic 1960s fun
- Making more waves this May Half-Term at York Art Gallery
- York Castle Museum steps back into childhood this May Half-Term with school food, toys and games!

