Count of Monte Cristo Costuming Inspiration

The Count of Monte Cristo is an adventure novel by the French writers Alexandre Dumas and his chief collaborator Auguste Maquet. It was first released as a cliff hanger serial from 1844 to 1846, then published in book form in 1846. The novel is set in France, Italy, and various islands in the Mediterranean Sea during the historical events of 1815–1839.  It begins on the day when Napoleon escaped from his first exile on the island of Elba.  So costuming options range from the Regency/Empire era to the Romantic era.

There are also quite a lot of characters from various economic levels which gives you a lot of costuming leeway.

A word of warning about this specific event!  We will be on a sailing ship and speaking as one who has done it before, you may want to avoid wearing your silks and velvets.  No matter how careful you are, you may get splashed with salt water or sea spray.  Make sure the fabrics you choose can handle it without damage. For that reason, I am focusing this article on daywear, but the silhouettes are much the same for eveningwear, with lower necklines and shorter sleeves, should you choose to wear that. Everyone can feel welcome to wear either a feminine or a masculine outfit depending on their preference.

Some of the character options: Sailors, Shipbuilders, Prisoners, Innkeepers, Fisherfolk, Counts and Countesses, Bankers, Singing instructor, Opera Singer, Jailors, Barons and Baronesses, Spies, and many people in disguise.  So, as you can see, there is a multitude to choose from.  Just remember we will be on a boat with limited space per person and SMALL bathrooms.

For women:  Dresses begin with the “Empire” columnar shape and proceed to the “Romantic” era with a more natural waistline, fuller skirts supported by corded petticoats, and bigger sleeves.  Or come as one of the common folks with fewer fashionable restrictions.

And a few screencaps from the recent Masterpiece Theater production.  For more and larger photos check IMDB. https://www.imdb.com/title/tt29547746/mediaviewer/rm1771091458/

A few pattern suggestions from various companies.  Any of these may have additional patterns worth considering.

Also consider this list from 2013 – Patterns for the Well-Dressed 19th Century Gentleman. https://historicalsewing.com/patterns-for-well-dressed-19th-century-gentleman