Recollections is your connection to history-inspired fashions. What was once a dream on a kitchen table has grown into an e-tail company with a global presence. Recollections was founded in 1981 in southern Michigan.
It quickly grew into a bricks-and-mortar retailer and mail order company specializing in wedding attire inspired by the Victorian and Edwardian eras. The original line consisted of dresses, skirts, blouses, petticoats, camisoles, and pantaloons.
Over the next 18 years, Recollections grew as a cottage industry. Operations moved to Hawks, a tiny picturesque community less than 10 miles from the shore of Lake Huron in Northeast Michigan. The company opened in the former Bismarck Township Hall, where operations continue to this day.
Why did Marianne move away from the hustle and bustle of the greater Detroit area to Northern Michigan? "Look around you! I never tire of the beauty and peacefulness of the area. We used to vacation in Rogers City in the summer when I was a teenager, so I was familiar with the area. I live in a log cabin in the woods less than 1/2 mile from Lake Huron, and the only noise I hear is the soothing sound of the waves rather than the noise of the traffic one hears downstate."
Recollections took the leap to e-tailing in 1999, long before many retailers. The online store featured three dozen products when the website was launched. Today, our online store offers nearly 1,000 garments and accessories from the Georgian/Regency, Victorian (including Civil War era and Old West), and Edwardian eras through the 1920s. We also feature a line of 1950s retro dresses.
Quality in design and construction, and a focus on customer service are the cornerstones of Recollections' foundation. Fabrics and embellishments are carefully selected to create the 'look' that is the hallmark of our clothing. We search until we find the quality fabrics, laces, trims, and accessories our customers expect.
Each garment is lovingly designed by Recollections' founder. Marianne is the creative energy behind the company. Her designs are then created, one at a time, by a network of seamstresses who are part of our extended family. Our models are lovely young women born and raised right here in our corner of Northern Michigan, except for Ola. She is from Ukraine and brings a unique perspective and sense of humor to the family.
Cheryl from Hats and Accessories by Cheryl designs and creates most of our hats. Cheryl and Marianne often work as a team so our hats perfectly complement our garments. Occasionally, they switch places. Instead of Cheryl designing a hat inspired by a garment, Marianne will design dress or ensemble inspired by one of Cheryl's hats. They make quite a team, collaborating and inspiring each other to the next level!
There are many others in our extended family, too. Sharon Meredith specializes in period appropriate hairstyles. Jennifer S. Adkins serves as our photographer and brings a keen sense of composition to each fashion shoot. Sue McDonald and Cheryl design accessories that are in sync our style. Our bloggers, social media, and website specialists, as well as those who provide assistance through customer service and sales are all part of our story.
Our talented and highly valued team is the reason we can offer the highest quality in history-inspired garments proudly made in America just for you!
3,088 Verified Customer Reviews
3,088 Customer Ratings and Reviews
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4.8
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Rating
5-star reviews
About this Company
Recollections is your connection to history-inspired fashions. What was once a dream on a kitchen table has grown into an e-tail company with a global presence. Recollections was founded in 1981 in southern Michigan.
It quickly grew into a bricks-and-mortar retailer and mail order company specializing in wedding attire inspired by the Victorian and Edwardian eras. The original line consisted of dresses, skirts, blouses, petticoats, camisoles, and pantaloons.
Over the next 18 years, Recollections grew as a cottage industry. Operations moved to Hawks, a tiny picturesque community less than 10 miles from the shore of Lake Huron in Northeast Michigan. The company opened in the former Bismarck Township Hall, where operations continue to this day.
Why did Marianne move away from the hustle and bustle of the greater Detroit area to Northern Michigan? "Look around you! I never tire of the beauty and peacefulness of the area. We used to vacation in Rogers City in the summer when I was a teenager, so I was familiar with the area. I live in a log cabin in the woods less than 1/2 mile from Lake Huron, and the only noise I hear is the soothing sound of the waves rather than the noise of the traffic one hears downstate."
Recollections took the leap to e-tailing in 1999, long before many retailers. The online store featured three dozen products when the website was launched. Today, our online store offers nearly 1,000 garments and accessories from the Georgian/Regency, Victorian (including Civil War era and Old West), and Edwardian eras through the 1920s. We also feature a line of 1950s retro dresses.
Quality in design and construction, and a focus on customer service are the cornerstones of Recollections' foundation. Fabrics and embellishments are carefully selected to create the 'look' that is the hallmark of our clothing. We search until we find the quality fabrics, laces, trims, and accessories our customers expect.
Each garment is lovingly designed by Recollections' founder. Marianne is the creative energy behind the company. Her designs are then created, one at a time, by a network of seamstresses who are part of our extended family. Our models are lovely young women born and raised right here in our corner of Northern Michigan, except for Ola. She is from Ukraine and brings a unique perspective and sense of humor to the family.
Cheryl from Hats and Accessories by Cheryl designs and creates most of our hats. Cheryl and Marianne often work as a team so our hats perfectly complement our garments. Occasionally, they switch places. Instead of Cheryl designing a hat inspired by a garment, Marianne will design dress or ensemble inspired by one of Cheryl's hats. They make quite a team, collaborating and inspiring each other to the next level!
There are many others in our extended family, too. Sharon Meredith specializes in period appropriate hairstyles. Jennifer S. Adkins serves as our photographer and brings a keen sense of composition to each fashion shoot. Sue McDonald and Cheryl design accessories that are in sync our style. Our bloggers, social media, and website specialists, as well as those who provide assistance through customer service and sales are all part of our story.
Our talented and highly valued team is the reason we can offer the highest quality in history-inspired garments proudly made in America just for you!
Today
The website is easy to browse.
Garment Choice
Attention to detail and comfort.
Why Recollections?
Quality and variety of merchandise.
1 day ago
I thoroughly enjoy perusing your online catalog. Once I have decided on my purchase, the check-out process is so simple and straightforward.
Garment Choice
I wanted an appropriate apron to wear with my period blouse and skirt when serving the Victorian teas at the Vaile mansion in Independence, Missouri.
Why Recollections?
The garments are beautiful and the craftsmanship is outstanding.
1 day ago
I cannot leave a comment until the item is received.
1 day ago
Always love your hats / very stylish!!
Garment Choice
Because I love hats !!
Why Recollections?
Because your hats are the best!!
3 days ago
I sent my measurements, but the dress arrived very tight across the bust. I am hoping I can wear it with a minimizer bra. Very disappointed.
Garment Choice
I like it
Why Recollections?
Past orders
Company Response
Thank you for your feedback.
We are sorry to hear the dress you ordered does not fit properly. Please contact us via email regarding a possible exchange or other options.
4 days ago
Great site to buy from. Just don't forget about need dates.
Company Response
Thank you for your comments and rating.
4 days ago
So far, good
Garment Choice
I am looking to replace my black mourning skirt and blouse for a black mourning dress that is period correct.dress
Why Recollections?
I was searching for Civil War dresses that are handmade and not mass produced as I found out on another site that the seller was not truthful, and the dress was mass produced. Thank you!
Company Response
Thank you for your comments and rating.
4 days ago
Website is easy to use. There is a great selection and I received great service and even better custom made products. Thank you!
Garment Choice
Wanted a few aprons which covered clothing in a beautiful way.
Why Recollections?
Visited site when looking for sturdy aprons.
Company Response
Thank you for your comments and rating. I think you will love our aprons!
4 days ago
I purchased this Apron for practical kitchen use. It is beautifully made. I will be back to purchase another. Thank you!
4 days ago
I love my Agatha Apron!! I purchased it for practical kitchen use. It is well made and has stood up to my daily use and weekly washings. Thank you!
6 days ago
It’s easy to use the website. The Customer Service is very helpful.
Garment Choice
I’m never disappointed with the items sold here.
Why Recollections?
Originally found Recollections on Etsy. I’ve ordering from Recollections ever since.
Company Response
Thank you for feedback and rating.
6 days ago
super easy. measurements for correct fit made it easy
Garment Choice
perfect for Mrs. Claus contract.
Why Recollections?
beautiful clothes
Company Response
Thank you for your comments and rating.
6 days ago
Always the best.
Company Response
Thank you for your comments and rating.
1 week ago
Extremely Easy To Use Web Site And Purchasing.
Garment Choice
Matches a previous outfit I purchased from Recollections.
Why Recollections?
I am a long term repeat customer. There are no equals to Recollections and the quality of their outfits and accessories.
Company Response
Thank you for your comments and rating!
1 week ago
Easy-to-use site that cares about a good shopping experience
Garment Choice
Looking for modest pretty clothing options
Why Recollections?
I love the clothing styles that you provide
Company Response
Thank you for your comments and rating!
1 week ago
Beautifully made, but too large. I am having them altered to fit me better.
1 week ago
Beautiful skirt and fits well.
1 week ago
easy purcha
Garment Choice
attending a Lafayette anniversary fun
Why Recollections?
have bought before
Company Response
Thank you for your feedback!
1 week ago
Easy to navigate
Why Recollections?
Have shopped many times, always love the results
Garment Choice
Flattering style
1 week ago
Wonderful. So many excellent choices it was very hard to make up my mind
Garment Choice
Going to a civil war event in October and wanted to look period but upper class.
Why Recollections?
Absolutely gorgeous clothes with fantastic prices
Company Response
Thank you for your feedback!
1 week ago
I'm unsure of my size but couldn't see where to add my measurements as stated.
Garment Choice
It is something I could use for shows.
Why Recollections?
Great look and good prices.
Company Response
Thank you for your comments and rating. It's a great idea to add your measurements so we can double check if you have selected the right size garments!
1 week ago
Excellent product but be aware that there is a wait time for all orders.
Garment Choice
I have always liked longer length skirts.
Why Recollections?
Unique product with options to customize fit.
Company Response
Thank you for your comments and rating.
1 week ago
Lovely material and nicely made.
1 week ago , Victorian Society of Colorado
I asked a friend for a Regency Spenser & Regency dress as a Christmas gift and because they were on sale I asked my hubby for another set and ordered it for him to give to me :-)
Loved the quality and fit. They came just before a Star Trek Cruise in Febuary and I decided to use them as alien dignitaries costumes. I basted a striped fabric down the front of the black Spencer to make my husband's humanoid alien dignitary costume. It was a hoot.
Why Recollections?
I have used Recollections many times for many years. If you are not in a hurry you get a custom, fully sewn, quality product at almost less than I could personally just buy the fabric for. Many things are not lined but I prefer that because layers of costumes get too hot. The added benefit is it's easier to alter unlined items when my weight changes.
Garment Choice
I did not already have any Regency Spencer's. Also I wanted more Regency dresses because the are easy to wear compared to my Victorian dresses and can be worn as Titanic/ Edwardian with the right accessories. ( I gained weight while on steroids for cancer treatment and can still use these dresses after loosing the weight. I have lost 41 pounds but have 60 still to loose. Regency/Edwardian are not as fitted as Victorian and won't have to be abandoned when I fit back into my pre-cancer Victorian wardrobe.)
Company Response
Thank you for your comments and rating. Your creativity is amazing!!
2 weeks ago
I don’t know if I’ll receive my clearance sale dress yet. The order information said the first person to order it, gets it. It’s still on the sale list so does that (it must) mean it’s still available?
Company Response
Thank you for your comments and rating. We've noted your comment about the listing still showing after your purchase. It appears we had more than one available in your size which caused it too look the way it did! Sorry to cause concern!!
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