Bring your favourite character to life with a custom-made cosplay costume, created especially for you.

A few years ago, I decided to make my own crinoline cage.

In the lush history of fashion and clothing, the vertugadin, that charming padded roll, is an intriguing accessory that has withstood the test of time. With its surprising versatility and historical allure, this piece of textile deserves our attention. Let's delve into the history, purpose, and even the possibility of making one ourselves!

In Dutch:

Jester hats are often associated with medieval costumes because they were originally worn by court jesters during the Middle Ages. These entertainers performed in royal courts across Europe, using humor, music, and satire to amuse kings and nobles. They were the  memes, quotes, satire, app's, crazy AI video's and GIF of the past!

In this blog, I’ll show how I transform a simple standard cape pattern into a richly detailed fantasy cape. Working intuitively, I add embroidery, textures, trims, and handcrafted details to create a completely unique piece suitable for Fantasy, Medieval, and LARP events. Each cape develops its own character and atmosphere along the way, making every creation one of a kind.

I was inspired by the famous “Castle Orange” colour of the historic fortress town of Bourtange when creating this medieval linen skirt. Throughout Bourtange, the warm rustic orange tone can be seen on the great wooden gate doors, the bridges and railings, the waterside walkways, docks, and the small guard posts that protect the fortress.

On yesterday’s NOS Journaal (16 May 2026), there was a segment that hit close to home: the urgent need for a circular economy. We can no longer treat sustainability as an option—it’s a necessity. Resources are finite, waste is overflowing, and the clock is ticking. Governments and organizations are setting deadlines, and the message is clear: We must act now.

For many years, platforms such as Etsy offered independent makers and artisans an opportunity to present handmade work to an international audience. In the early years, Etsy was strongly connected to craftsmanship, individuality and small creative ateliers.

Yesterday, I wrote about being a Victorian Costumemaker.  But my journey into medieval costume making began many years ago in a very personal way. My son worked as a museum manager at the historical Town Bourtange, and I started recreating the historical clothing he wore for his work there. Reason: he could have two pair of sets for his own. What began as a practical sewing project soon became a true passion.

Creating Victorian clothing and accessories is far more than simply sewing garments. It is an artistic journey into a world of elegance, craftsmanship, history, and timeless beauty. At Historique Couture, every design begins with admiration for the remarkable fashion traditions of the Victorian era and a passion for preserving historical sewing techniques.

I am proud to announce that Handmade Luxury Home is now online — a unique marketplace filled with beautiful handmade treasures, from original drawing art and elegant home décor to warm, cosy quilts and timeless creations for every interior.

The answer is: yes!  On Historique Couture I have made all the clothing, costumes and accessories myself. Every creation is entirely handcrafted, from the very beginning to the finishing touches. This includes selecting the fabrics and trims, researching historical styles, choosing and adapting patterns, cutting and sewing each garment, and carefully adding all final details by hand.

Customers from around the world have found Historique Couture Etsy shop, and I am truly grateful for the trust and enthusiasm I have received there. My Etsy boutique will remain open, and customers who enjoy shopping through Etsy are still warmly welcome to place their orders there.