Announcement    Welcome to Clytemnestra's Closet! Come browse through for a delightful selection of handmade Victorian and French inspired millinery Cocardes, flowers and other accessories.

Each Cocarde is based on an original Victorian design, many of these are crafted of real vintage ribbon and buttons, every creation hand folded by my own patient fingers.

FAQ’s
What is a cocarde?
Cocardes are fanciful ribbon embellishments designed for hats and fashions popular in Victorian times through the 1920's, they were even used by the military to adorn uniforms. Cocarde or Coquarde is French for cockscomb - a very befitting name indeed.

What other names are cocardes known by?
Also called cockades or, coquardes.

Why so expensive?
The price of each item is based on the cost of the ribbon, difficulty level, how much ribbon is needed and time involved. Many of my items are made with vintage ribbon that can cost several dollars per yard, try shopping for vintage and antique ribbons and you will see! Most cocardes take several yards of ribbon to make, it adds up quickly. I also use fine vintage and antique buttons.

Do you teach?
No, I do not teach at this time, nor do I have a you tube channel, patterns or written instructions.

Where can find a pattern or instructions to make these creations?
I am unaware of any modern sources of instructions, there are antique ribbon art books that have some instructions, some of these booklets have been reproduced and are for sale on ebay and other venues. Original ones can also be found, but are often in delicate condition.

Where did you learn?
I took many hours of classes from a ribbon artist who no longer teaches. I also taught myself many techniques through trial and error using the above mentioned antique booklets. Being a lifelong learner and years of practice have given me the skills to create my own designs as well as modifying existing ones.

Where do you get your ribbon?
I have been collecting for years and have many sources for ribbon, including ebay, etsy, private sellers etc. Many of the ribbons I use are no longer manufactured and are becoming scarce. French ombré wired ribbons and German moiré ribbons for example, are no longer made.

Do you do custom work?
Need a certain color or size? Please feel free to contact me for custom orders, it would be my pleasure to create a special item for you! I cannot always accommodate custom orders, but will do everything possible to make it happen.

Can I send you ribbon to work with?
I do not allow ribbon sent to me, there are too many issues that can arise.

Please note that hats, clothing and handbags are used as props to show how the cocardes can be worn and are not part of the listing.

Visit my other Etsy shop:

ArmosasAttic.etsy.com for an eclectic selection of vintage goods and supplies.