The Impact of Historical Knowledge, Skill, and Interpretive Attitude on the Authenticity of Female Reenactors' Regency-Style Gowns

Abstract

The purpose of this qualitative case study research was to explore how elements of and barriers to authenticity impact the level of authenticity achieved in Regency reenactors’ gowns. Interviews with ten female Regency reenactors and participant observation were conducted. Participants displayed categorical differences in their commitment to historical knowledge and willingness (interpretive attitude) and ability (skill) to replicate primary historical sources. Overall, the results confirmed that reenactors negotiate their desire for authenticity with personal needs and limitations when creating reenactment dress but contradicted the idea that authenticity is a function of developing historical knowledge. Reenactors’ interpretive attitude, which was often influenced by skill level, was more influential than historical knowledge in pursuing and achieving authenticity. This research resulted in the revision and integration of The Historic Styles of Dress Design Considerations Model into the Authenticity Continuum, creating the Updated Authenticity Continuum, which may be used in future research reenactment and related topics.