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!
3,113 Verified Customer Reviews
3,113 Customer Ratings and Reviews
Shopper Approved collects trusted reviews from customers who have made a verified purchase.
4.8
Overall Star
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!
02/24/2016
I just wanted to send a note that I received the Piper Ensemble and I just LOVE it!
02/24/2016
Received my order yesterday in the mail the red cotton skirt and the stripe twill jacket look very nice together and I love the black accents on the red skirt please thank everyone who made that outfit come together. The jacket is a little too tight but I am sure the tailor here can let it out a little will check with him when he is feeling better.
02/19/2016
Thank you so very much! My experience with Recollections so far is amazing! I put my order in today for the two piece Dresden blue shirt/drawstring skirt with the ivory lace color.
02/12/2016
Barb, got it about an hour ago. It is just beautiful. And so well made and fits perfect.
02/12/2016
My new outfit arrived today. Thank you! It's beautiful!
02/12/2016
Thank you, thank you, thank you, thank you for getting order #154281 to me by today. It is much appreciated.Now I will be able to strut into my interview knowing I look amazing.
02/11/2016
I wanted to let you know that the Wendy dress arrived a few days ago and it's perfect!
02/05/2016 , TN
Just What I Wanted
I absolutely love my new apron. It is just what I wanted. Very serviceable as I actually wear mine to work in. The materials, pattern, quality are all what I expected.
I am every pleased. I'm going to purchase another one; I just need to decide on which fabric to choose.
I have also purchased a skirt, lace blouse, and 2 ensembles. I also wear them all the time. I couldn't be happier. I'm one very happy "born 150 years too late" woman.
1 Product Review
02/05/2016
I absolutely love my new apron. It is just what I wanted. Very serviceable as I actually wear mine to work in. The materials, pattern, quality are all what I expected.I am every pleased. I'm going to purchase another one; I just need to decide on which fabric to choose. I have also purchased a skirt, lace blouse, and 2 ensembles. I also wear them all the time. I couldn't be happier. I'm one very happy "born 150 years too late" woman.
01/23/2016 , FL
Step back in time.
I recently wore this (111270-1081) in Hunter green along with the holly blouse and a hunter green vest from recollections. After dressing and pinning up my hair I was stunned by the effect. It was like I was in 1890!
01/23/2016
I recently wore this in Hunter green along with the holly blouse and a hunter green vest from recollections. After dressing and pinning up my hair I was stunned by the effect. It was like I was in 1890!
01/23/2016
I ordered this in the nasturtium print (white with scattering of red flowers. Fit like it was tailored for me. I am 5'9" and 2__ pounds. Makes me feel like I was 18 again. As I live in Tampa, I wore it for a Christmas event. The fabric is substantial enough to elegant yet the calico skirt left me far cooler than friends wearing jeans. Just beautiful.
01/20/2016 , NC
Amazingly beautiful!
I had wanted this dress (130778) for years and finally had a reason to purchase it for a special Christmas event at the Museum I work at. It is beyond beautiful! Sizing was perfect. The dress is stunning! Thank you to the ladies at Recollections for their hard work. I highly recommend!
01/20/2016
I had wanted this dress for years and finally had a reason to purchase it for a special Christmas event at the Museum I work at. It is beyond beautiful! Sizing was perfect. The dress is stunning! Thank you to the ladies at Recollections for their hard work. I highly recommend!
01/15/2016 , CA
Beautiful little accessory!
I wore this (Cincher) out with a black dress with gold swirls. The very first thing I got was compliments on how cute it looked, where did I get it, etc. it looked as though it was a part of the dress ensemble. I love it.
I've been a Recollections customer for years and have never been disappointed.
12/28/2015 , NY
Love it !
I love this blouse (1001)and will order another one. Wear it as part of a daytime outfit with a full tiered denim skirt and a fitted scoop neck vest. Have received a number of compliments on the blouse. Excellent Customer Service in helping me choose fabric pattern
12/28/2015
I love this blouse and will order another one. Wear it as part of a daytime outfit with a full tiered denim skirt and a fitted scoop neck vest. Have received a number of compliments on the blouse. Excellent Customer Service in helping me choose fabric pattern
12/22/2015 , PA
Absolutely beautiful!!!
My sister purchased this (120335-1096) for me as a surprise birthday gift. I do Edwardian and WW1 impressions. Can't tell you enough how authentic this ensemble is. Comfortable too. Thank you Recollections. Once again your offer an accurate piece in a wide range of sizes with excellent workmanship and at a great price. You have done justice to the WW1 nurses who gave so much by representing them with this gorgeous piece
12/22/2015
My sister purchased this for me as a surprise birthday gift. I do Edwardian and WW1 impressions. Can't tell you enough how authentic this ensemble is. Comfortable too. Thank you Recollections. Once again your offer an accurate piece in a wide range of sizes with excellent workmanship and at a great price. You have done justice to the WW1 nurses who gave so much by representing them with this gorgeous piece
12/21/2015 , TX
Actually worth at least 10 stars!!!
To say I *ADORE* this skirt (W103) is putting it mildly. It's comfortable, sturdy but light weight and most importantly it has POCKETS!
This is a great basic skirt for anyone who's involved with Live Action Role Play but has neither the time, skill or inclination to sew their own garb. By the time you add together the cost of fabric, notions and the cutting & sewing time (oh how I hate to sew hems) the price is pretty reasonable especially if bought on sale.
My current plan is to get this skirt in several colors in both lengths and then I will be set for LARPing, convention-going and everyday wear for a long time to come.
12/21/2015
To say I *ADORE* this skirt is putting it mildly. It's comfortable, sturdy but light weight and most importantly it has POCKETS!This is a great basic skirt for anyone who's involved with Live Action Role Play but has neither the time, skill or inclination to sew their own garb. By the time you add together the cost of fabric, notions and the cutting & sewing time (oh how I hate to sew hems) the price is pretty reasonable especially if bought on sale.My current plan is to get this skirt in several colors in both lengths and then I will be set for LARPing, convention-going and everyday wear for a long time to come.
12/07/2015 , CA
Crossover to Regency
This lovely dress (130941-2) made a perfect crossover to Regency with a fichu, a bonnet, and net mitts. I was given so MANY compliments at the Jane Austen Birthday Tea! The fit was perfect, and the cut was extremely flattering for a larger figure. I intend to use this for both my Austen fetes and my Suffragette rallies, with a simple change of accessories. Lovely, lovely, lovely.
12/07/2015
This lovely dress made a perfect crossover to Regency with a fichu, a bonnet, and net mitts. I was given so MANY compliments at the Jane Austen Birthday Tea! The fit was perfect, and the cut was extremely flattering for a larger figure. I intend to use this for both my Austen fetes and my Suffragette rallies, with a simple change of accessories. Lovely, lovely, lovely.
11/22/2015 , Limburg
lovely, just what I wanted
This dress (61204) has it all: perfect fit, very beautiful sleeves and don't forget the pockets in the skirt. And if you want to change the look just bustle it up add a petticoat and the drees is transformed. It also looks good with just bloomers under the skirt. I love it so much I ordered it again. I hope it will come back on the site to stay, because this is a dress, if you have one, you want another one....... Thank you ladies!
11/22/2015
This dress has it all: perfect fit, very beautiful sleeves and don't forget the pockets in the skirt. And if you want to change the look just bustle it up add a petticoat and the drees is transformed. It also looks good with just bloomers under the skirt. I love it so much I ordered it again. I hope it will come back on the site to stay, because this is a dress, if you have one, you want another one....... Thank you ladies!
10/29/2015 , CA
A truly amazing company !
I ordered this dress (150455-6) a month ago, Recollections ran out of the white taffeta, got it in the day before my need date. So this was the process; 10/27/2015 White taffeta arrives from supplier, the production department received it, made the dress with my specific alterations, packed it, and sent it off to UPS, and I got it the next day. So in short...THANK YOU THANK YOU THANK YOU for everyone's hard and diligent work. I sincerely appreciate it ! To all the customer service agents, Barb and Athena & all the seamstresses,especially the ones responsible for making my white taffeta Marelda ballgown...You ladies are the best !
10/29/2015
I ordered this dress a month ago, Recollections ran out of the white taffeta, got it in the day before my need date. So this was the process; 10/27/2015 White taffeta arrives from supplier, the production department received it, made the dress with my specific alterations, packed it, and sent it off to UPS, and I got it the next day. So in short...THANK YOU THANK YOU THANK YOU for everyone's hard and diligent work. I sincerely appreciate it ! To all the customer service agents, Barb and Athena & all the seamstresses,especially the ones responsible for making my white taffeta Marelda ballgown...You ladies are the best !
10/28/2015 , WI
Lovely in person!
I saw this suit at (120128-9) the 2015 Somewhere In Time Weekend, and it was absolutely lovely. The style is flattering and elegant even on fuller figures, and it can be easily customized to suit the wearer with her own choice of hat, chemisette, and other accessories.
10/28/2015
I saw this suit at the 2015 Somewhere In Time Weekend, and it was absolutely lovely. The style is flattering and elegant even on fuller figures, and it can be easily customized to suit the wearer with her own choice of hat, chemisette, and other accessories.
10/16/2015 , TN
Pleased 3 time customer
I recently purchased 2 of the Pioneer Calico Dresses and I just love them. Sizing is perfect and excellent workmanship.
They are extremely comfortable, (these and other like them are my everyday wear) and I intend to buy a couple more in the near future. I have never understood why women gave up long skirts. They are so much prettier, comfortable and serviceable than those other things.
Excellent product - thanks Recollections!
p.s. I also have the black twill skirt and a beautiful white lacy blouse from Recollections. Love them
10/16/2015
I recently purchased 2 of the Pioneer Calico Dresses and I just love them. Sizing is perfect and excellent workmanship.They are extremely comfortable, (these and other like them are my everyday wear) and I intend to buy a couple more in the near future. I have never understood why women gave up long skirts. They are so much prettier, comfortable and serviceable than those other things.Excellent product - thanks Recollections!p.s. I also have the black twill skirt and a beautiful white lacy blouse from Recollections. Love them
10/13/2015 , CA
Absolutely stunning
This is my first purchase with Recollections and I have to say I'm so happy with the results. The tailoring is exquisite and the tailoring is of very high quality. So happy. I wore this to an event on Friday night and got rave reviews from other women, who all wanted to know where I purchased. I've added a few items to my wishlist that I plan to purchase soon. Thank you all for your quality work.
10/13/2015
This is my first purchase with Recollections and I have to say I'm so happy with the results. The tailoring is exquisite and the tailoring is of very high quality. So happy. I wore this to an event on Friday night and got rave reviews from other women, who all wanted to know where I purchased. I've added a few items to my wishlist that I plan to purchase soon. Thank you all for your quality work.
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