Tailor's Pattern Book

Alcega, Juan de. Tailor's Pattern Book 1589. Carlton, Bedford UK: Ruth Bean, 1999.

Juan de Alcega's Tailor's Pattern Book 1589 is a vital primary source for anyone studying Renaissance fashion. This facsimile edition provides some of the only surviving tailoring patterns from the late 16th century, offering unique insight into the craftsmanship behind garments of the Spanish nobility. The book contains over 130 detailed patterns for a wide variety of garments, making it an invaluable resource for historians and costume designers alike. For anyone interested in Renaissance costume design or the history of tailoring, this is a must-have resource, offering one of the few direct windows into the techniques and styles of a bygone era.

The book includes 135 detailed patterns that were used by tailors to create a wide variety of garments for both men and women. These range from doublets and cloaks to elaborate gowns and farthingales. What makes this work so valuable is its practical approach—tailors of the 16th century would have used these exact patterns to cut and assemble fabric, ensuring the precise fit and luxurious styles that characterized the nobility’s attire.

Each pattern is accompanied by yardage requirements, essential for recreating these garments today. However, the original work lacks illustrations, so modern users must rely on their interpretation skills and historical knowledge when following the layouts and instructions. The facsimile also includes both the original Spanish text and its English translation, providing accessibility for a broader audience.

This is a paperback edition with wear along the book edges, and a prior owner's address label on the front sheet. Otherwise in near fine condition. No marks or highlighting. It is approximately 11"tall x 8¼"wide x ¾"thick. ISBN: 9780903585316. I am asking $330.

Text from the back cover:

This rare edition of 135 tailoring patterns was originally published in Madrid in 1589, during the reigns of Philip II of Spain and Elizabeth I of England, when Spanish fashion dominated European dress. It covers 25 categories of garments: for men and women, the clergy, knights, for tournaments, and others. 

As very few garments survive from the period it is an important source book for dress historians and costume designers. The patterns and instructions also provide authentic information for historical re-enactment groups.

This information is unique since Juan de Alcega, master tailor, was the first to publish the secrets of the tailor's trade. The complete English translation, historical introduction, notes and glossary are based on extensive research and the Spanish original is reproduced from the copy in the Victoria & Albert Museum in London.

Ruth Bean Publishers

Victoria Farmhouse, Carlton, Bedford MK43 7LP, England

For a related book, see:

Arnold, Janet. Patterns of Fashion: The Cut and Construction of Clothes for Men and Women c1560-1620. Macmillan, 1985.