THE RAPPAHANNOCK COLONIAL HERITAGE SOCIETY, INC.

DANCE TEAM STANDARDS OF ATTIRE
FOR CHILDREN AND ADULTS


All Natural Fabrics
Wool, linen, cotton and silk, blends of these materials or acceptable satin substitute. NO obvious polyester materials, zippers, Velcro that is visible, etc., and as much as possible the period correct prints and fabric colors. Please do the research.

Style/Design of Clothes
Appropriate to the time period of the day and the time of day. The time period RCHS covers is 1760-1820. The time period depends on the particular event we are participating in.

Hairstyle or Wig
Appropriate to the time period of the day and the time of day. The time period RCHS covers is 1760-1820. The time period depends on the particular event we are participating in. Check with the dance instructor or event coordinator if you have a question.

Hats
Appropriate to the time period being portrayed. Examples for 1770s: men’s cocked hats, ladies ‘round eared’ caps, ladies flat or low crown brimmed straw or wool felt hat.

Dance Shoes
Soft flexible dance shoes work best for the men. The Dance Instructor can provide an example of the style of shoe appropriate for the gentleman to wear. The Dance Instructor also has a source for these shoes or you may purchase them at dance supply stores. Ladies dance best in heels – if appropriate to the time period being portrayed. They can be 21st century shoes converted to 18th century with buckles and/or ribbons. Our Dance Instructor understands all ‘feet’ are not the same and the Dance Instructor is willing to work with us to find an acceptable substitute.

Gloves or Mitts
Worn by men, women and children when suitable.

Make-Up
The “natural” look please if you are wearing 21st century makeup. Mascara, blush, lipstick are acceptable if worn in an “unassuming manner.” Make up was worn in the 18thC but make sure what you wear is appropriate for who you are portraying and what you are portraying. Do your research first.

Nail Polish
Nail polish is not appropriate. If you have to wear polish make sure to keep your hands covered with gloves.

Jewelry
Make sure that it is appropriate to your persona/station and also to the time of day (morning/evening).

Appropriate “Dress of the Day”
This is very important. Our manner of dress (dress style, hair, hat, etc) portrays whatever time period we are doing that day, and that the style of dress be correct for the time of day, whether daytime or evening.

If you are unsure of your fabric, hat, hairstyle, etc. please check with the Dance Instructor or someone who has been designated before the day of the performance. When we are doing a function for ourselves our manner of clothing is not that important. When we are in the public eye “on stage” we need to be the best personification of the 18th century that we can possibly be.

 

 


 


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Last updated on July 17, 2022.

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