Clothing for Women and Children

of

Wright’s Company of Grenadiers

1st Royal Regiment of Foot, Inc.

Women's Clothing

While the heart of the company’s objective is to field as many men-at-arms as possible, women are welcome to join Wright’s Company of Grenadiers, 1st Royal Regiment of Foot, Inc and are equal members with full voting rights.  Women are expected to portray 18th century women who followed the army.  They are not allowed to carry arms and portray men.  The majority of women camp followers are expected to portray lower class people because of who they are attached to—privates and NCO’s.  While you may be portraying lower class people, this is not a free pass for you to wear improper or incorrect clothes or fabrics, nor to appear in any form of "undress". 

Women are expected to wear shifts; pocket(s); petticoats; stays; a jacket or bedgown, shortgown, or long gown of common material; cap; hat; stockings; and 18th century shoes.  If you are going to be cooking, you must be in linen or wool (no cotton around the campfire).  If you don’t understand any of that laundry list, you are highly encouraged to speak with Kathy, of our command staff.  She would be more than glad to help you through the crush of sutlers (who are willing to sell you anything to make a fast buck), and pick proper, correct patterns or clothes for you and our time period.  She also has a wonderful eye for picking the best colors and patterns to make you look your best.  WARNING: stay away from clothing called “English or French Bodices” and “mob or mop” caps.  They are completely wrong and made-up.  Also stay away from Quilting calico prints, and most floral and toile patterned fabric.  Bear in mind that most floral patterns are too small to be correct for our time period or are 19th century.   Women are governed by the same eye glasses guidelines. 

There are times, however, that you may wish to dress up more and maybe wear a gown.  That is okay.  The company holds several 18th century social events, like candle-light dinners; attends Tavern Nights; and eats at authentic restaurants.  Higher dress is appropriate for these events.

Children’s Clothing

In general, children are dressed as miniatures of their adult parents.  However, common sense and leeway is exhibited here as the staff recognizes the fact that children will quickly out grown their clothes and shoes.  Any good effort to make it look like the children fit in will be accepted.