The younger boy might be given a lace collar rather than a stiff Eton collar or a white skirt rather than a more boyish color. Some dress patterns and styles were discussed in detail in contemorary women's magazines. Some magazines included a free pattern and many more for sale. Some of the patterns were discussed in detail and there were also siscussiions of garments and fashions. Only limnited information is avialable, but HBC hopes to expand this section.
Some period movies depict boys in long hair and dresses.
Movies of course can vary greatly in historical accuracy. It is likely, however, that those who have gone to the trouble of depicting boys in dresses and long hair, probably ercised considerable attention to detail. Some details are available on the actual experiences of several late 19th century boys who wore dresses. Most are the children of notable indivisuals of the day as they were the most likely to gave written about their childhood or have their childhood touch upon in books about their familiy experiences.