18th Century Milliners

Last updated: Feb 25, 2024

This page focuses on illustrations of milliners, who tend to be depicted either in their shops, on the way to see clients, or showing their wares in clients’ homes. Newspaper advertisements, trade cards, and other records provide useful details as to what sorts of wares an 18th century milliner would have sold.

Millinery shop interiors

Milliners en route

Typically, milliners carry their wares in a rectangular box with an arched top, although other shapes also appear (such as large disc-shaped boxes ideal for wide hats).

Milliners in clients’ homes

Milliners often visit their customers at their dressing tables.