Dickens on a Shoestring (and an Ice Skate!)

by Trystan Bass, First published for the January/February 2004 issue of Finery

In 1857, Nathaniel Currier and James Merritt Ives formed a partnership which created hugely popular prints for American middle-class homes through the 1880s. Many famous prints showed charming winter scenes, such as that of ice skaters in New York’s Central Park. Contemporary with Charles Dickens, the work of Currier & Ives is a perfect inspiration for our February skating party at Palo Alto’s charming outdoor/indoor rink, the Winter Lodge.

Victorian day dress is perhaps the easiest type of costume to do cheaply and fast, and the Currier & Ives event is a great place to try it out. Giant hoop skirts and starched evening suits are not the best on the rink. Comfortable, simple, daytime garb such as that worn by middle-class Victorians is perfect to skate in.

If you don’t have Dickens’ Fair garb already, don’t despair! This is an excellent event for beginners and anyone who enjoys thrift store costuming.

Ladies, look in your closet for a long, full skirt, especially in wool or velvet. Or check thrift stores for long, plaid maxi-skirts from the 1970s. Pair this with a high-necked blouse. Add a fitted wool or velvet jacket from a thrift store. If you can’t find a jacket, a cozy woolen shawl will look and feel nice. Add a vintage muff, and wear classic shoes or boots (you’ll be changing into ice skates anyway). Tuck your hair under a knit or fur cap, and you’re ready for an afternoon skate.

Gentlemen can pair pleated-front trousers with a button-down shirt and a snazzy vest, which might be found in your closet or a thrift store. Some modem winter coats resemble Victorian frock and great coats. A loose suit jacket might work as a sack coat too, especially in a tweedy fabric. Or bundle up with an old-fashioned sweater over a buttoned shirt and tie. Modem dress shoes or boots will be fine when you’re off the ice. Don’t forget your gloves and scarf.

Even if you don’t want to skate, do buy a ticket and come dress up and join us for a relaxing afternoon of mulled cider and dessert!