Versatility and "the conversion factor" are helpful to the reenactor, particularly one on a budget. The short "formal" jacket is a great base on which to build a variety of presentations. With the addition of buttons, lace, trim, and other accompaniments the short jacket can be adapted to fit whichever "persona" is needed. In this case, the persona was a California ranchero from the period approximately 1830s-1850s. As you can see by the photograph, the basic jacket has been accessorized with silver buttons at the cuffs and down the front. Additionally, metallic lace trim has been sewn at the cuffs. The original large buttonholes (two) at the front of the jacket (designed to be used with large shank buttons connected by a short chain) were sewn closed to be less obtrusive.
Check out local thrift shops, garage and rummage sales and with luck you can find a short jacket like this inexpensively. Other suggestions for adaptions include (but are not limited to) stitching on contrasting fabric lapels, different button arrangements, epaulets, fabric, lace or other trimmings to represent various presentations for historical personas.
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