1. The Hook (Engage)

Let's start by looking at two pictures: one of a celebrity on the red carpet today, and one of a woman's portrait from around 1810.

Ask Madisyn: "At first glance, the dress from 200 years ago might look simple or even a bit plain compared to what we see today. But what if I told you that this dress was a huge symbol of rebellion, freedom, and world-changing events? What story do you think her clothes are trying to tell us about her life and her world?"

2. Lesson Objectives (Preview)

“Today, we are going to be fashion detectives. We’ll uncover the secrets behind the styles of 1810. Our mission is to figure out what women were wearing, why they were wearing it, and how huge events like wars and revolutions ended up in their closets. By the end, you'll even get to be the designer and create a modern look inspired by this incredible time period.”

1. I DO: The Look of 1810 (10 minutes)

“First, let's break down the basic look. I’m going to show you some fashion plates and paintings from the era. As we look, I want you to notice a few key things.”

• The Empire Silhouette: “The most important feature is this high waistline, right up under the bust. It's called the 'Empire' waist. It creates a long, straight, column-like look. This was a massive change from the wide skirts and tight corsets of the 1700s.”
• Lightweight Fabrics: “The dresses were often made of lightweight, almost sheer fabrics like muslin and cotton. This was revolutionary because for centuries before, heavy silks and brocades were the sign of wealth.”
• Neoclassical Influence: “Why did they look like walking Greek statues? Because they wanted to! After the chaos of the French Revolution, people in Europe became obsessed with the ideas of democracy and reason from ancient Greece and Rome. They started copying the art, architecture, and even the clothing styles seen on ancient statues. It was their way of looking modern, clean, and thoughtful.”

2. WE DO: Connecting Fashion to History (15 minutes)

“Okay, now let’s connect the dots. Fashion doesn't just happen; it's a reaction to the world. Let’s create a T-chart. On the left, we’ll write a ‘Fashion Trend,’ and on the right, the ‘Historical Cause.’”

“See? Every piece of clothing tells a story about conflict, new ideas, and how people lived.”

3. YOU DO: Designer for a Day (15 minutes)

“Now it's your turn to be the designer. Your challenge is to create a modern outfit for your own fashion line called ‘Regency Remix.’ Your design must be inspired by the 1810s.”

Instructions for Madisyn:

1. Get Inspired: Choose at least TWO elements from 1810s fashion we talked about (e.g., Empire waist, a certain neckline, light fabric, a specific pattern).
2. Sketch Your Design: On your paper, sketch an outfit for today. It can be a dress, a top and pants, a formal gown—whatever you imagine. Add color and notes.
3. Write a "Designer's Note": Next to your sketch, write a short paragraph explaining your design. Describe the 1810s elements you used and which historical idea or event inspired you.

Success Criteria (what makes a great design):

• Your sketch clearly shows at least two identifiable features from the 1810s.
• Your Designer's Note correctly names the historical elements you used.
• Your note explains the "why"—connecting your design to a historical idea like freedom, patriotism, or neoclassicism.

1. Share and Reflect (You Do)

“Alright, designer, let's see your creation! Tell me about your ‘Regency Remix’ outfit. What historical elements did you choose and why?”

(Madisyn presents her sketch and reads her designer's note. Provide positive and specific feedback, such as, "I love how you used the empire waist on a modern jumpsuit; that's a brilliant way to capture the idea of freedom.")

2. Recap and Takeaway (We Do)

“Let’s quickly recap our detective work. What were two key features of 1810s fashion?” (Wait for answers: Empire waist, light fabrics, etc.)

“And what was one major world event that completely changed what people wore back then?” (Wait for answers: French Revolution, Napoleonic Wars, etc.)

“The main takeaway is this: fashion is history you can wear. The clothes we choose, both then and now, send a message and tell a story about who we are and the world we live in. You did an amazing job uncovering that story today!”