Easy Grace and Comfort: Men’s Frock Coat Sewing Workshop

The frock coat broke into the men’s fashionable dress in the middle of the 18th century as a lighter, more loosely fitted alternative to the closely fitted, heavily padded and stiffened dress coats of the era.

Henry Cooke, principal of Historical Costume Services, will lead participants through the construction of a frock coat, either from a kit supplied by him, or from participant supplied cloth. The different types of coats will be covered, along with the types of stitches needed to construct this essential outer garment. Construction of cuffs, collars, lapels, and pocket, pleating, lining, and finishing will be covered in the class. Henry will also bring different types of buttons for possible use, along with original garments and buttons to inform and inspire. Frock coat kits will be available in a variety of Kochan and Phillips woolens, along with linen osnaburg, and indigo blue and brown linens. The workshop is limited to twelve students.

Part of the History Space series presented by the Newport Historical Society and the Rhode Island Historical Society.