It’s always interesting to read the descriptions of beautiful women from past centuries and see how they might compare to today’s beauties. One of the common attributes often noted is their teeth: having white, even teeth was a definite attribute … Continue reading
Marissa Doyle
From the June 1819 edition of Ackermann’s Repository, may I present to you, with mingled delight and horror… THE ROYAL WATERLOO BATH … Continue reading
We’re taking a bit of a detour from our discussion of cleanliness to talk about hair—who knew it would turn into such an interesting topic? So we already know that washing your hair meant using regular soap, which tends to … Continue reading
It’s hard to believe, when walking down the toiletries aisle at your local pharmacy or market, that all those colorful bottles of shampoo are a fairly recent innovation…like, 20th century recent. As I said last time, when you wanted clean … Continue reading
So our young lady in need of a good wash has her hip bath filled with warm water (and I’m still thinking about those poor maids having to carry it all up for her!) set before the fireplace in her … Continue reading
I may love to talk about the 19th century and sometimes dream a little about stepping into a time machine and visiting it, but there are a few facets of life in which I am firmly 21st century…and one of … Continue reading
Here’s a puzzle for you to solve: what is this nineteenth century mystery object? … Continue reading
In fiction about the 19th century, you see them everywhere: they’re carrying tea trays, opening doors, serving dinner, or wandering about decoratively at balls wearing powdered wigs and knee-breeches with silk stockings, carrying trays of champagne glasses. I’m referring, of … Continue reading
In these days of Title IX when young women can participate in pretty much any sport they choose, it’s easy to forget that not much over a hundred years ago, anything much more strenuous than a decorous horseback ride in … Continue reading
Ah, having a lady’s maid. Sounds lovely, doesn’t it? Someone to pamper you and pick up your discarded silk shawls and rub your temples with lavender water when you have a headache…what’s not to love? Ahem. I have to admit … Continue reading