Freckles, Complexions, Cosmetics, and Victorian Beauty Concoctions

Freckles, Complexions, Cosmetics, and Victorian Beauty Concoctions

While dimples and beauty marks were seen as attractive and stylish, Victorian Americans deplored freckles, “moth marks”, suntans, and sunburns–most unfeminine! Commercial products promised to eradicate such unwelcome blemishes and guaranteed beauty! If potions and powders failed, one photographer promised no freckles showed in his cabinet cards.

Calamity Jane, Guest Post by Heather Blanton

Calamity Jane, Guest Post by Heather Blanton

Guest Post by Heather Blanton, author of Bestselling Romance in the Rockies Series:

Martha Jane Cannary. Name doesn’t ring a bell?
Then you might know her by her legendary moniker “Calamity” Jane.
Ever wonder how she got the name?

Indoor Plumbing in Victorian America

Indoor Plumbing in Victorian America

The history of indoor toilets (including those that flush) goes back further into history than you might expect. I share the timeline of such facilities, followed by surviving examples of Victorian indoor toilets, schematics of proper plumbing techniques of the day, and floor plans including indoor tubs and toilets. Victorians–at least late Victorians–had life pretty comfortable.

Victorian Ladies Underwear

Victorian Ladies Underwear

Throughout the 19th century, ladies undergarments remained quite similar. Drawers (or bloomers), yesteryear’s most related item to today’s panties, ranged from knee- to ankle-length, were constructed of various fabrics, and were held up by a button or drawstring, with an open crotch.

Item listings in vintage catalogs and magazines illustrate the standard items available via mail-order throughout the United States Victorian era.

Victorian Era Feminine Hygiene

Victorian Era Feminine Hygiene

Open discussion of a woman’s menstrual cycle (and hygiene needs) are a relatively new development, but women have been coping without modern feminine hygiene products for millennia. The Victorian-era American women had many conveniences for their day, including ready-made, catalog-ready products marketed specifically for them. Hygiene often included douching with specially designed syringes. The timing of the first truly disposable product just might surprise you. This article contains images from the Sears, Roebuck & Co. catalog and Montgomery, Ward & Co. catalog of the day.