How to Dress Like the Dickens

November 14, 2018
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Travel back in time at the DICKENS ON CENTRE in Amelia Island December 7-9, 2018. This Victorian inspired holiday festival is even more fun if you dress for the occasion. Here are some tips and ideas.

Victorian Accents for Everyone
  • A fur, knit or crochet shawl wrapped over your shoulders.  In a pinch, a Christmas tree skirt can make a perfect cape!
  • Victorian hats came in all shapes and sizes depending on the decade. Small straw plate-shaped hats can be curved and bent into perch hats, while large straw brim hats can be decorated with feathers and flowers for the Edwardian look. Putting on a hat is the quickest way to get the look and the spirit. (You'll often find hats for men and women for sale on Centre Street at Cornercopia.)
  • Lace-up boots in black or brown are the most accurate. Otherwise, black oxfords, Mary Janes, mules, and flats will work too.
  • A brooch pin, such as a cameo, is an easy accessory that can be worn on your blouse collar, belt, or on that hat.
  • Wearing as much jewelry as you could was a sign of your wealth. A filigree Y-shaped necklace or pearls with pendant are easy to find and can look very Victorian.
Ladies
  • Find a long "A-line" skirt that you could pair with a white blouse, shawl and boots or flats, then add the hat of your choice.  A pashmina-style scarf looks great around the shoulders or tied around the waist.  If you can find a crinoline, petticoat, or old tutu from dancing days, try it underneath for a vintage silhouette.
Young Girls
  • Dress her up in a long skirt or straight dress with a white blouse, boots. Tights and a turtleneck underneath keep it comfortable. A bonnet can be trimmed with holly or Christmas bows.
Gentlemen
  • Black or brown pants and jacket with a white shirt.  Maybe toss a scarf around your neck and finish with a top hat.
Young Boys
  • Go for black, grey or brown pants tucked into white knee socks with boots or lace up shoes. On top, white shirt or a thermal top in a solid color with a vest, then add a newsboy hat or straw hat, and scarf.  
 
Have fun with your ensemble and start planning your visit to DICKENS ON CENTRE, where Historic Downtown Fernandina Beach transforms into a classic English village, sure to enliven your Christmas spirit.
 
 

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Located just off the coast of northeast Florida, Amelia Island is easy to reach, but hard to forget. With 13 miles of beautiful beaches, abundant native wildlife, and pristine waters, this barrier island has long been a beloved destination for visitors and residents alike.