The chiffonet is a mysterious bit of fabric heavily featured in Gallery of Fashion by N. Heideloff. [6] While examining all the different fashion plates that described a chiffonet, we’ve concluded that this simple rectangular piece of fabric could be worn tied around the head or in a more elaborate “traditional” turban style. [7] They seem to vary from about 1 to 3 yards (1 to 3 m) long and 4 to 10 inches (10 to 25 m) wide. We made ours a bit in the middle of those ranges, but you can alter the measurements to fit your preferences. Chiffonets could be wrapped elaborately around the head or just simply tied in a bow. They could be worn with bandeaus or feathers or on their own. Though this project is incredibly simple, there is much opportunity for styling your chiffonet.
• 1 yard (1 m) silk, cotton or linen material (We used silk organza.)
• #50 silk thread to match
• Hairpins (optional)
1. Cut out your chiffonet according to the diagram. We cut ours to create horizontal stripes and used our selvage edges as the ends.
2. If you need to whip edges together to achieve the length, now is the time to do it.
3. Baste and hem the raw edges.
There are a ton of different ways to do this! Here is just one example:
4. Fold or twist your chiffonet to add texture and interest, then align the middle of the chiffonet to the center of your head.
5. Wrap the twisted ends under your chignon, and bring them back up to the top of your head.
6. Tie a knot (or bow) slightly off to one side, for a jaunty look.
7. Arrange and fluff the chiffonet as needed to achieve your desired look, and pin it into place.
8. Voilà! You’re the epitome of 1790s chic.
