The Kitchen Wench

1. The Kitchen Wench http://www.tudorshoppe.com/ August 2013

2. The Story of the Kitchen Wench You’ve seen her in movies, on television, in plays, in books, in songs, painting, and in basically any form of media that has entertained the Tudor Era in some form or fashion.

3. Who Is She? The young and vibrant kitchen wench will stop at nothing to look pretty in her work place. Kitchen Wenches were alluring, friendly, and sassy. Embody their essence by falling into their garments. She’s up before everyone else in the household, tending to the details of the kitchen. The kitchen wench knows that her role is essential in order to keep the house running smoothly and comfortably.

4. Classic Chemise The classic chemise is a great base item that can be used to compliment many Tudor era inspired costumes. • The ideal classic chemise will be made of 100% cotton muslin. • Make sure that your chemise comes with a drawstring neckline and has very full and long sleeves. • Most chemises should be “one size fits all.” • We’re no longer in the Tudor era so be sure to confirm that your chemise is machine washable, for your own sake.

5. Gathered Peasant Skirt Comfy, cozy, cute, and humble. • A comfortable and affordable gathered peasant skirt is of soft cotton. It should resemble the weave of linen but sans the cost of linen • Double set of lace holes in the back of the waistband allow for adjusting the fit • A great peasant skirt will have an extra-high waistband rather than elastic so that you can keep your chemise tucked in all day and never look disheveled

6. Twill Bodice With the magic that the Twill Bodice delivers there is no corset needed! • Twill bodice’s look great in Hunter Green, Rouge, and Admiral. Really nice ones come completely reversible to Jewel Black • The two lengths of steel boning alongside the grommets, add strength to the bodice which helps to lift the bosom. • Always be sure to order a bodice based on your natural waist size. So be sure to measure yourself before making a purchase • A quality twill bodice will be machine washable, however should be hung to dry

7. Ring Belt Whether you are a captain or a pirate, a kitchen wench or an innkeeper. The ring belt was an item that nearly everyone used during the Tudor era. • Carry pouches, favors, mugs, and whatnots with the use of a ring belt • Serves the need for both fashion and function • A really nice ring belt will be handmade and dyed in order to give it those authentic details that we all like to have in our outfits

8. In Closing With all of these pieces combined you will be able to portray a beautiful kitchen wench of the Tudor period. What’s great about having these pieces is that some are interchangeable and can be used to create further outfits as you grow your collection of Tudor era clothing!

9. Contact Us Founded in 2001, The Tudor Shoppe provides reproduction Tudor Era (1485-1603) and related goods to individuals, stage productions, television shows, museums, historic sites, educational institutions, and re-enactment societies. Our goal remains clear: to offer quality goods at the best price possible price. Visit us today at http://www.tudorshoppe.com/