TikTok Star Teaches Followers About History Using Costumes

Asta Darling is a famous TikToker best-known for creating DIY clothes worn in the 19th century. She attended the Wimbledon College of Arts, where she studied costume history for stage and screen. But when everything stopped due to the pandemic, the 31-year-old fashionista decided to give TikTok a try. She posted a video of the lecture she was about to give for the Tennessee-based Historical Society where she volunteers, and it became viral.

Happy with the results, Darling decided that she would continue posting one-minute clips. She started focusing on beautiful handmade dresses and accessories worn three centuries ago. Although many people think TikTok videos are useless, the fashionista explains that her videos are fun and educational.

“It’s been great to see young people say, ‘I want to get into history!’. I’ve had people reach out from Kentucky to say that young people from TikTok have reached out to their historical group wanting to volunteer,” she shared to Rafinery29.

When answering assumptions on Instagram, if she always wears Victorian dresses, Darling said that she calls herself “Time Chameleon”, which means her wardrobe is a mix of a little bit of everything.

“I don’t really define my style. I’m a time traveler, and I like to borrow from every era to adorn myself,” she said.

@asta.darling

Atlas Obscura had an article about Victorian flirting so I brought it to life! #victorian #flirting #flirtingtips101 #costume #fashionhistory

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