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18th-Century Clothing

Costume Design Center 75th Anniversary

Founded in 1934

Celebrate the 75th anniversary of Colonial Williamsburg's costumed interpretation. View costumes and accessories and go behind the scenes with the designer, tailors and craftspeople at the Costume Design Center. View anniversary timeline

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Looking at 18th-Century Clothing

Clothing can reflect status and situation for men and women.
African-American Clothing in Colonial Williamsburg

Images of African Americans across society.
Anatomy of a Gown
See the gown's structure revealed.
Anatomy of a Suit
Uncover the components of a colonial man's suit.

Dressing the Part: an interactive adventure

Dress a colonial person from head to toe.
An Eighteenth-Century Paper Doll

See how a girl gets ready for her day in the 1700s.
Around the Globe
Material for clothing comes from all over the world.
Shoes & Accessories
Finishing touches complete a lady's ensemble.