Year Two - Historical Costume for Screen

Gentleman Jack

This project focused on historical tailoring for screen, using Anne Lister’s wedding suit from Gentleman Jack as the reference point. I constructed a full costume from the inside out, prioritising structure, fit, and wearability over surface accuracy alone.

As part of the research phase, I studied the original costumes at Cosprop in London with tailor Dan Ashworth, gaining direct insight into professional construction methods for screen garments. This informed my approach to pattern cutting, internal structure, and finishing throughout the build.

I developed the costume independently, cutting, fitting, and refining each element to a professional standard. Accurately matching the pattern across the waistcoat pockets marked a turning point in my tailoring practice, reinforcing my confidence in technical decision-making rather than second-guessing my judgement.

This project brought research, tailoring skill, and practical problem-solving together, with a clear focus on how historical garments function on the body and on screen.