Book a Talk

We are available to deliver talks and presentations to your society or club

Talks & Presentations

The British Guild of Historical Costume Makers is a non-profit organisation that promotes the craft of historical costume making in the UK. We are passionate about sharing our skills and research with other groups and communities.

We can deliver talks and presentations to local history societies, heritage groups, and community organisations such as the Women’s Institute, Rotary Club, and U3A.

Our speakers are experienced dress historians, museum curators, and skilled makers, and offer talks on constructing historical costumes, the social history of clothing, and the practical application of fashion history to date photographs and paintings. We can also tailor presentations to suit a group's specific needs.

'Show & Tell' and Handling Sessions

Speakers can deliver talks whilst wearing historical costume, and can even 'get dressed' in sessions to show each layer of clothing in detail, from historical undergarments (corsets and crinolines) all the way up to outerwear (coats and shoes).

They may also be able to offer replica garments for your attendees to handle, and some of our speakers may be able to provide a 'show & tell' of original historical garments.

Our Fees

The Guild is a non-profit organisation. Our fees cover costs associated with research, image licensing, garment conservation, replicas for handling, and other presentation materials.

Our speaker fees start at £100 + travel expenses based on a 1 hour talk. Travel expenses are charged at £0.45 per mile.

Our speakers are located across the country, but all have different specialities. Please enquire to see how we can best meet your needs.