I think, deep down, I’ve always been a steampunk girl.

When I was about 20 years old I was the model for a ladies’ tea. I was put into a full 1900’s outfit. Much like the ladies in the illustration.

My underthings consisted of a sheath, a corset, stockings, a corset cover, a pair of split pants (bloomers with a gap in the crotch for using the toilet), two petticoats, and padding over my rump.

Then over all of that was a nearly sheer cotton high-neck blouse, a skirt that brushed the tops of my feet, a hat and gloves. I honestly can’t remember if she had shoes that fit me or not.

One day I would love to have authentic recreations of a couple Victorian ladies’ outfits, with fully functional steampunk accessories, but…

It’s summer in North America right now. Today reached the low 90’s (over 32 degrees Celsius, for the whole rest of the world. lol). While running a couple errands this afternoon the thought crossed my mind that as much as I love the Victorian aesthetic I am very glad that it’s not culturally mandatory for me to be wearing 4 layers of clothing right now.

 Jeans and a tshirt work quite nicely, thank you.