Milliner
Colonial milliners operated fashionable shops where customers could buy clothing, accessories, and imported goods. Millinery was also one of the few businesses that women could own and manage in colonial America.
What Was a Milliner?
A milliner’s business was much like a modern-day clothing store. Here, men and women could shop for the day’s fashionable clothes and accessories. Interestingly enough, a millinery was just about the only business in colonial times that could be owned and managed by a woman.
What Did Milliners Sell?
A milliner sold a variety of things such as fabric, hats, ribbons, hair pieces, dolls, jewelry, lottery tickets, games, and medicines. Most of the items for sale were imported from England.
Mantua Makers and Tailors
In addition, milliners hired people called mantua makers, who would craft customized outfits, costumes, dresses, and jackets for women, and tailors, who would perform similar duties for men.
See a Colonial Millinery Shop
Making a Ball Gown at the Colonial Williamsburg Millinery Shop
Explore the Colonial Town
Click a shop or building on the map to learn about another colonial trade.
