Historic Costumes for Stage, Pageants, Festivals, Masquerades and Holiday Fun
18th Century Colonial Costumes - 1700's
Colonial Dress - Styles of the 1700's
In the early days, American clothing was functional rather than fashionable. Clothing in 18th century USA was made from rough, native fibers - wool, cotton,
hemp or flax - and, unless one could afford to hire a tailor, were fashioned
by hand.
Men wore knee britches and hose (stockings), although by the end of the century
long pants were beginning to make an appearance. Tri cornered hats and powdered
wigs were worn by the rich and aristocracy.
Learn
More:The Memorial
Hall Museum's American Collection features a great multimedia presentation
on colonial men's and women's clothing in early and late 18th century US,
with authentic images and descriptions of the customary attire, shown layer
by layer.
18th century finery, revolutionary war uniforms, famous figures from early American history, and simple colonial outfits. A few more 18th century costumes can be found on the deluxe
costumes pages. Pilgrim costumes can be found on the 17th Century page.