1770's Riding Habit

The 18th century riding habit was composed of 3 pieces: jacket, waistcoat and petticoat. The habit was worn for day wear and travel, as well as for sidesaddle horseback riding. Habits for riding often had longer petticoats, which draped gracefully down the side of the horse. While lovely, this skirt is not practical, and is not included in this pattern.

This 1770-1775 habit has narrow lapels, short skirts on the jacket with functional pockets, and a short waistcoat with a half-belt. This habit may have embellished buttonholes as on the original in London.

Patterns are provided for waistcoat, half-belt and riding habit jacket. Diagrams are provided for cutting the petticoat. Directions include photographs of construction process for all garments, including fitting muslins for the waistcoat and the jacket body.

This original pattern is based on two riding habits, one in the collection of The Hereford Museum and Art Gallery, Hereford, England, and the other in The Victoria and Albert Museum, London, England. Both of these habits have petticoats intended for walking and travel.

Fabric Suggestions: woolens, worsted woolens, silk/wool blends. Fabric requirements: 5 – 7 yd. 54” fabric, depending on pattern size.

Pattern is available in sizes 8 – 24, one size per pattern. The riding habit jacket and waistcoat were designed to be worn over 18th century stays and. will not fit a modern body in modern undergarments.

Note: This pattern is recommended for those with intermediate to advanced sewing skills.