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Shopper Award

Historical Emporium Reviews & Ratings



At Historical Emporium, we aim to deliver truly excellent customer service.

We use Shopper Approved, an independent customer ratings service, to ensure that we are meeting that promise, and we invite you to browse ALL of the Historical Emporium reviews on Shopper Approved to judge for yourself.

Our customers also leave reviews on other places around the web, including Google, Facebook, and Yelp. You can find links to those reviews below.

Please contact us if you have any questions.



Historical Emporium Customer Reviews, Week Ending 2015-03-01

Anonymous Customer
MI, United States
2015-03-01
Very satisfied with everything.
LR52
GA, United States
2015-03-01
I've bought several items from "WE", and have been very pleased with the quality and fit. Because of the great products, I have had no need to contact customer service. If customer service is anything like their products there should be no problems in getting help. Thanks, "WE"!
Michael
NSW, Australia
2015-02-28
I never fail to be impressed by the Emporium's swift and efficient service. I have shopped with the Emporium many times before and will continue to do so - excellent prices for high quality products with shipping times that can't be beat; let's hear a few rousing huzzahs for the Emporium and their fine work!
Keith
2015-02-27
Everything was just great, loved the quality.
Lincoln's New S
IL, United States
2015-02-27
These sturdy vests are perfect for our Historic Site. Many volunteers, full time staff, seasonal staff and Illinois College Interns wear clothing from our closet and it is very important that we are able to keep up with the wear and tear of our garments. These vests are so well constructed that I believe they will serve our needs for years to come. The price and quality cannot be beat. Jane Carrington Lincoln's New Salem State Historic Site Petersburg, IL.
Steve N
Surry, United Kingdom
2015-02-27
Wonderful stuff I can't get anything like this in the UK, will definitely be using you again, and have recommended you to all my friends, thank you all.
L. Rook
MO, United States
2015-02-27
5 Stars 5 Diamonds and 5 Woohoo's!! Spoke and emailed Eve in customer service several times. She simply is the best! Took care of everything on back order with a smile in her voice and professionalism. Can't say enough good things about her! Items shipped quickly and very well package.
FRED B
VA, United States
2015-02-27
I have ordered several items from Historical Emporium, and every one was superb quality. The customer service was great and delivery was prompt. I highly recommend this web-site... you won't be disappointed.
Cassandra
2015-02-27
Service was great. I received my shipment within a few days. Very pleased. Will order again.
timothy c
TX, United States
2015-02-26
satisfied
Sailor M
PA, United States
2015-02-26
The vest is excellent quality. And as described on line. It is the 5th vest I have bought at the emporium. I am still looking for one of this quality in a slightly different shade of green: suitable for both St Patrick's day and Christmas season.
wobbly
2015-02-26
Return of merchandise was easy and confirmation was timely. Shipping charges were on the high side, had to pay both ways. Had to "return" not "exchange" to avoid paying shipping 3 times!
Heather
MB, Canada
2015-02-26
Fabulous service and delivery! I purchased 4 items (dragon vest, walking stick, pin, pocket watch) and all the items met or surpassed my expectations. I had emailed some questions about the vest I bought and was really impressed with the next day response I received. My only wish is that the smaller vest sizes were available in "tall" as well, because the small dragon vest is about 2 inches too short for my skinny 6 foot son. It looks far too nice to send back so I've bought matching lining fabric and am inserting a piece in the shoulder to lengthen it. It was a challenge to pick apart the shoulder seams which really speaks to the workmanship on this product ... very neat sewing with super small stitches. Amazing quality for this day and age. And the pocket watch is gorgeous. If I ever need Victorian clothing again, this will be the only place I'll shop!
Robert K
2015-02-26
Excellent and friendly customer that goes the extra mile!!!!
Vincentcazenas
VA, United States
2015-02-26
I am disappointed that you do not order the vest for the Harrison that match my trouser I ordered. The large vest is out of stock and I was told they would not order until all vest were sold. This does no do me much good since I have the trousers but no vest ..what am I going to to do. I many not ever get the vest. No large vest. I don' know whe vest will arrive . Very unhappy about your timing. I should have not bought the trousers . Had them altered. To late to send back .coustomer service shoul have let me know that the vest would not be ordered until your stock was depleated
Carlos
FL, United States
2015-02-26
Eve was great and will ask for her again. Great job!
Caleb
WA, United States
2015-02-26
Excellent service! The item I ordered was originally too small, but return and exchange process was quick and without issues. I have since purchased several other items from them and they have all arrived in a timely manner exactly as described.
Blueboi
CO, United States
2015-02-26
Superior quality dress shirts. As nice as any high end mens clothier. vest are great and better than anticipating.
Barbara M
2015-02-26
I always find great products and service. I love the cut and fit of the pants --they look great on stage and can be used for a number of different looks. Thanks
jack
OK, United States
2015-02-26
Had to wait awhile to get this order but product was worth it .
Chard
CA, United States
2015-02-25
I recommend the Gentleman's Emporium often. The Best steampunk and Victorian clothing on the web!
Mark C
GA, United States
2015-02-24
Everyone was vry polite and professional.
Penny
CA, United States
2015-02-24
Ordering was so simple and quick. The items I ordered were delivered in a few days!
Ione
AB, Canada
2015-02-24
Our order arrived much quicker than I had expected. As it was for our son's Birthday, that was excellent!
Joel
CO, United States
2015-02-23
Great Service!
Act I
WV, United States
2015-02-23
Great products and timely delivery.
BadTable M
CA, United States
2015-02-23
Extremely well-made gaiters, and I received them quickly. Great shopping experience.
1812 h
IN, United States
2015-02-23
Wow, all I can say is wow. I was completely satisfied with quality of service and products. I will be purchasing more.
Customer Reviews by Shopper Approved

Product Reviews, Week Ending 2015-03-01

Michael
Sydney, NS, AU
Feb 28, 2015
Elegant and stylish
I own a number of frock coats and morning coats; this one rapidly became my favourite. The cut is superb, and adds a certain air of style and an olde worlde charm that's very flattering to the wearer. It's an elegant looking coat in anyone's book, uncluttered and spare in its design (and yet still more than a little exotic in our rather mundane modern world of unflattering men's suits that all look the same), presenting a very trim silhouette, and let's be honest - who doesn't love a coat with tails? I was also lucky that the fit was perfect out of the box; and can I recommend trying it out with your best and brightest waistcoats? Whether worn open or with the button fastened, the contrast of the coat with a little something in silk or velvet in a cheery hue helps to show a little play alongside the cutaway coat's more sober work or formal lines. Any day I get to wear this coat is a very good day indeed.
Michael
Sydney, NS, AU
Feb 28, 2015
The elastic makes all the difference
I bought two pair of canvas braces a few years back when I started shopping at the Emporium, and never looked back (fact: belts do not work as well as braces in keeping your trousers up). Buying a couple of new pairs of trousers, I decided to buy a couple of new pairs of braces as well, and as much as I was an instant convert to braces, I'm an equally instant convert to braces with an elastic tail, for reasons of functionality and comfort. Definitely recommended.
Michael
Sydney, NS, AU
Feb 28, 2015
Needs more grip
I used to own a pair of elasticised metal sleeve garters, but lost them at some point while moving house, and so bought 2 pair of these silk sleeve garters. In comparison, they don't have as strong a grip and require frequent readjustment. If I wear a coat (and I do, all year round), the garters end up at my wrists when I take it off, which is not ideal. They have an attractive look, but require greater functionality.
Michael
Sydney, NS, AU
Feb 28, 2015
Casual and yet still formal
I needed some new work shirts and a couple of these bad boys did the trick very well indeed! The fabric is quite pleasantly textured and a little heavier than expected, but very comfortable to wear. I'd probably recommend sleeve garters be worn in conjunction with this shirt, but that's probably just a personal thing. The lack of collar gives the shirt a pleasantly casual air, even when worn to work with a suit. Matter of fact, it's just the ticket if you're looking for something to break up your work wardrobe with. Now to try a few in different colours...
Michael
Sydney, NS, AU
Feb 28, 2015
Would you like to stand out from the crowd?
Wearing a purple velvet jacket is probably a good way to start. Whether in my workaday life or as a gentleman-at-play, every time I wear this jacket people notice it, double-take and ask, "Where did you get that jacket? It's superb." Which it is. And neither statement is an exaggeration. People notice the purple! The cut is excellent - an accident of sizing, I know, but the 46R fits me as though tailored; shoulders, chest and sleeves - the construction is also quite durable, and the velvet is lush and rich in texture and colour; I wear a lot of velvet in waistcoats, coats and jackets, and the velvet of this coat is as easy to the touch as it is on the eye. A real stand-out, and comes highly recommended. You won't be disappointed.
Michael
Sydney, NS, AU
Feb 28, 2015
Rich, dark and yet also quite vibrant
The three adjectives I've used in the review title pretty much say it all. The midnight blue velvet is rich and lush, a thick texture as well as being quite easy on the eye; the colour is superb. The sizing was also spot on - it fit like a glove on taking it out of the box; a moment of marvellous serendipity! Highly recommended in terms of look and construction (it's quite durable as well as attractive and a fortuitous fit), it breaks up a predominantly black-suited work wardrobe with a bit of dash and savoir-faire!
Michael
Sydney, NS, AU
Feb 28, 2015
If you'd really like to be noticed on entering a room...
...just wear this waistcoat and see what happens! The photo doesn't adequately show you exactly how vivid this waistcoat is - and boy, is it vivid! The purple leaps out at the eye and provides an excellent contrast against a black suit (I wear it with a Victorian cutaway frock coat and Livingston brushed cotton trousers) and a white shirt. Like all of the other Bonaventure waistcoats, the velvet has a lush texture, the colour is of an impressively deep and rich lustre, and contrasted well with the offset black trim (in both colour and texture) and the bright antiqued buttons. It is a very handsome addition to any gentleman's wardrobe, and comes very highly recommended. The only way you won't make an immediate impression on entering a room while wearing this waistcoat is if everyone in the room is asleep, or if all the lights are off. Mind you, in the latter instance, the purple is so vivid I'd be surprised if it didn't glow in the dark...
Michael
Sydney, NS, AU
Feb 28, 2015
None more black...
Spinal Tap references aside - this waistcoat is seriously black. Not so much just 'black' as BLACK. It's so black it even provides contrast against other black clothes. It's so black that light bends around it. This is a good thing. Like all of the other Bonaventure waistcoats, the texture of the velvet is is lush, the cut is sharp, the colour is rich and deep, and the internal contrast provided by the bright antiqued buttons and the trim (through texture and sheen) is a strong design feature in and of itself. A highly recommended purchase, and one I wear regularly to work, and casually. It also works as a formal waistcoat, naturally, and is durable as well as attractive. It also has the dual benefit of going with absolutely everything in my wardrobe and immediately raising the tone of anything I wear it with. It is pure class in waistcoat form. You will not be disappointed with this item, believe me.
Michael
Sydney, NS, AU
Feb 28, 2015
Darker than you might think
Like all of the Bonaventure waistcoats, the texture of the velvet is lush, the cut is very fine, and the contrast provided by the black trim (in colour and texture) and the bright antiqued buttons is excellent; the colour is also deep and rich, but in this instance, very dark, depending on the lighting you're standing under. Occasionally this waistcoat looks black under artificial lights - sunlight does bring its rich green lustre to the fore. Regardless, it's a handsome addition to anyone's wardrobe.
Michael
Sydney, NS, AU
Feb 28, 2015
Rich in colour and texture
The pictures really don't do the waistcoat justice. The cut is superb, the texture is quite lush and the colour is rich and vibrant, and offset perfectly by the black trim. I wear this to work on a regular basis and it always gets compliments - works well with a black coat and trousers (I wear it with the Livingston brushed cotton trousers and the Victorian cutaway frock coat) and a white shirt for excellent contrast. One of my favourite items in my wardrobe - you'll probably find it becomes one of the favourites in yours, too.
Michael
Sydney, NS, AU
Feb 28, 2015
A vision in stripes (Pt 2)
A nice change from the more traditional black and black pinstripe suits I'd usually wear, the Humboldt stripe trousers, when worn with the matching Humboldt waistcoat, are guaranteed to make you stand out. They work well as casual trousers or something more formal, or for workwear (try matching the Humboldt trousers and waistcoat with the Livingston black brushed cotton town coat, black boots, a white shirt and a black tie. Trust me - it works). The trousers are generously cut (a little loose in the middle, truth be told; the adjuster in the back takes up some of that slack), and the fabric has a nice texture to it that does lend itself to play as much as work. The buttons match the colour of the stripe perfectly, by the way. If you're thinking of buying them, I'd recommend it; you won't be disappointed.
Michael
Sydney, NS, AU
Feb 28, 2015
A vision in stripes! (Part 1)
I've never owned a suit that wasn't black, or a black pinstripe; the Humboldt stripe vest (and matching trousers) makes for an excellent change, and one that stands out and gets you noticed. The fit is generous, the colours compliment each other very well (and the buttons match the stripe perfectly), and the texture of the fabric makes the waistcoat suitable for casual wear, as well as part of something more formal, or as I do, for work, on a regular basis (I match the Humboldt vest and trousers with the Livingston black brushed cotton town coat, black boots and a white shirt and black tie combo as in the pictures above - trust me. It works). If you're thinking of buying it, believe me, it'll make a very fine addition to your wardrobe.
Michael
Sydney, NS, AU
Feb 28, 2015
A problem with pockets
An attractive and durable coat with a generous cut, my only issue with the Livingston Town Coat is that the two external side pockets are slightly awkward in terms of size (the coat is a large fit, but getting my hands in and out of the pockets while I'm wearing it is a little more difficult than it should be, should I try to retrieve my phone or wallet in a hurry, as the pockets are relatively small) and positioning. And given the coat is unlined, there are no internal pockets. Hence the four instead of five star rating. That said, the coat matches VERY well with the Livingston black brushed cotton waistcoat and trousers, to present you with a three piece suit of a unique appearance and texture; I wear mine to work regularly and am complimented on its look.
AngieD
Feb 27, 2015
Quality great, too long
Although I love the quality and look of this skirt, it wiil have to be altered due to the long length. It is easily 6 inches longer than stated length.
AngieD
Feb 27, 2015
Gray skirt
Love the quality. Length was as stated snd size is perfect.
Becky Auran
San Jose, CA
Feb 27, 2015
Classic Gibson Blouse
While the color of the blouse was right on, the fabric was not one I would have ordered. I like cotton and it was a mix so I thought it would be OK for wash and wear. It is, indeed, a "linen" and while it is classy, it requires alot of manual maintenance. It just looked like the same fabric my previous order was; a smooth cotton blend fabric.
Rook
Branson West, Mi
Feb 27, 2015
Rook
Very nice hat but Capt. Woodrow Call would've preferred it a bit thicker material. Will look great when I add my sorrel and black braided horse hair stampede string cuz first thing I did was throw away that "lil chin strap" as they call it and "season" it for 2 weeks hanging in barn. Nuff said! Woodrow this ones for you :))
Rook
Branson West, Mi
Feb 27, 2015
Swashbuckling Duster
Remember the boys in Northfield bank heist? That's the look I wanted with this swashbuckling duster. Duster was quality material and looks great after I "seasoned" it by hanging in dusty barn for 2 weeks. This duster is cut very generous so it can go over frock coat and still stay true to your size. I washed it first thing in warm water and medium dryer with "zero" shrinkage! The ladies in the Walmart pharmacy can't get enough of me now!! 5 Woohoo's for that kind of attention. ;)) Frank, Jesse and Cole would all be proud of this one!!
Rook
Branson West, Mi
Feb 27, 2015
Buffalo Hunter Bowler
Remember the buffalo hunter Big Swede in Lonesome Dove? That's the look I wanted with this swashbuckling tall bowler and my duster. Hat was quality material and looks great after I "seasoned" it by hanging in dusty barn for 2 weeks. Tossed out the standard feather and added my own longer feathers for one of a kind accent. The ladies in the Walmart pharmacy can't get enough of me now!! 5 Woohoo's for that kind of attention. ;))
FRED BONN
BRISTOL, VI
Feb 27, 2015
A MUST HAVE!!!
This ascot is great for weddings...formal events...or any occasion. Great cream color matches almost anything. Get this one and you can thank me later...A MUST HAVE!!!
FRED BONN
BRISTOL, VI
Feb 27, 2015
TOP RATED QUALITY
MASCULINE..SIMPLY SOUTHERN..AND TOP QUALITY
FRED BONN
BRISTOL, VI
Feb 27, 2015
SUPERIOR QUALITY ASCOT
When I received this ascot it was even more than expected. Looks great with the matching pocket square. lots of good compliments on this one..and the ladies love it too
Matt
Yorkville, NY
Feb 27, 2015
Great piece
Very happy with the quality of this shirt. The material is comfortable and it really looks "the part." I especially loved the frilly lace at the bottom of the sleeves. There's an elastic material in there that allows you to easily move the sleeves around to your liking.
Frank
Sutherlin
Feb 27, 2015
Commander Vest
Fits well, looks good, I added a few stitches to each button, they seems a little loose. All in all I am very satisfied.
Jody Bauer
Conifer, CO
Feb 26, 2015
newsboy cap much too puffy and full in shape.
The hat is much more puffy and a large roundness to the shape, different than what the photo shows. I gave two stars because the photo does not clearly show the overall shape of the hat. I wish there would of been dimensions, then I would of known I would not like this hat, different than size dimensions, no problem with size dimensions. I know I can return though I will have over $15.00 in shipping fees with delivery to me and return to you.
Dragon Vest
SKU: 000380
Heather
Winnipeg, Ma, CA
Feb 26, 2015
Dragon Vest
Fabulous vest. It does not disappoint in appearance or workmanship. The only downside is that it is 2 inches short on my 6 foot tall son, so is needing alterations. If you are thin and long-waisted and/or over 5'10", you may find this vest short. In a perfect world, tall lengths would be available in the smaller vest sizes as well!
Joseph
Billings, Mo
Feb 26, 2015
Surprised
This shirt is twice as nice as I expected. Wore it while traveling for comfort, but received so many compliments I decided to wear it in more formal meetings. It was well received. Comfortable, well built, a great look. I give this shirt an A+!
Walt
Abingdon, Md
Feb 26, 2015
Belt
I was very pleased with the quick delivery and the quality of the belt was better than I would have expected considering the modest price. I will definitely use your business should I need to purchase your type of products in the future.
Lauren
Sy, AU
Feb 26, 2015
real old school victorian
We bought a medium for my fiancées groom outfit. These shirts are very Victorian, very long, almost like a nightie! Works great with the sable trousers, the front of the shirt is great with the detail and little silver button at the collar. We are going to be taking it in around the chest just because it is quite baggy when tucked in to the pants. It works great with the pants, I don't think I would have been able to pull this off with a plain modern business shirt. Keep up the good work!
Lauren
Sy, AU
Feb 26, 2015
you made need to get them taken up..
We bought three pairs of these trousers. We bought one for a size 32 man, which are great quality but did need to be taken up and taken in just a smidge. The others are perfectly fine, except we got them all taken up cause they are looong pants! The style of these pants in their nature are wider than the modern day pants, so it depends on what you want. They are fantastic quality, I recommended them to people who want that Victorian style pants with no belt loops! Ya hoo!

Sy, AU
Feb 26, 2015
faceted tie tack
Great craftmanship! Looks fantastic! Looks like it costs much more than what I actually paid for it. :) great accessory for the puff ties to make them shine! :)
Randy
Arlington, VA
Feb 26, 2015
Great coat
Love it for certain occasions
Gary R
Pembroke Pines, Fl
Feb 26, 2015
Great
Fantastic vest perfect fit perfect color. Thanks
Gary R
Pembroke Pines, Fl
Feb 26, 2015
A little heavy
Nice cut and fit...a little heavier material than I expected or wanted.
Kass
Ottawa, On, CA
Feb 26, 2015
British Empire Pith Helmet
Very happy with this helmet; it fits well and is comfortable. It will make an interestingly authentic statement as part of my steampunk explorer costume.
Rod
W. PalmBeach, FL
Feb 26, 2015
Piper mustache - Gray
This mustache should be taken off the market. The paste-on directions say that chemicals in the paste-on strips contain carcigens that are known to cause cancer. What Director is going to ask he actor to use something harmful to his health? Not me. I am returning the poduct and asking for re-imbursement.
JamesA
MACON, GA
Feb 26, 2015
Happy but also an Issue
I do have an issue, however let me begin by saying I have always been pleased with the quality of products that I have ordered from your company. I recently ordered a top hat which to my dismay did not fit. I returned it and all went well except that I ended up paying shipping for receiving and returning the product. I feel it would have been good customer service for the company to have reimbursed me for the return or original shipping.
Chard Lowden
Santa Rosa, ca
Feb 25, 2015
Fantastic trowsers.
Great weight for the Steampunk Cruise 2015! Love them.
John
Salt Lake City, Ut
Feb 25, 2015
Quality Braces
These are legitimate, tough, real leather braces. They are stiff brand new but a little use and even some leather treatment form them up nicely. They are unique and very stylish in addition to being "bullet-proof." I deducted a star because they very nearly didn't fit. I'm 6'3 and have them near the bottom most loops which created a hoop at the point of attachment to the button gussets which is annoying and unsightly but they are slowly stretching around to be flatter against the abdomen. If you are over 6'3 or have a long torso you might consider a different set.
John
Salt Lake City, Ut
Feb 25, 2015
Not bad, a little deceptive.
Sizing: RAN SMALL. I wear between a 36 and 38 depending on the pant (most 38's brand new are comfortable bordering loose). I ordered these in a 38 to be safe and I can barely squeeze the button together around bare skin. With a shirt tucked in or sitting down these pants are toast. I would need at least a 40 (that would be the only 40" pant I've ever worn). My other complaint was the width through the leg to the opening. In the pictures it seemed it was tapered to fit well into a boot or snugly over the top, but these are WIDE, like a relaxed or husky fit; they swamp any boots I would use. Measurement details for the pant would have been helpful. Those things being said, the quality is good for the price. I would just order up on the waist and consider finding a tailor to taper the legs in if you aren't into the baggy look.
Jill
Vancouver
Feb 24, 2015
Fantastic!
Brighter and more purple than in the photo. Well made. Shipped promptly. Thank you.
san
peru, Il
Feb 24, 2015
skirt
Correct Leight, color, style. Fits like a glove. Material soft and not to heavy to wear, comfortable to wear in cold, cool weather. Will see how the material holds out the warm to hot temperatures.
san
peru, Il
Feb 24, 2015
undergarment
Fits fantastic. Material just impressive not to out there.
Fedora - Black
SKU: 004915
sani
peru, Il
Feb 24, 2015
hat
Fits perfectly. Material fantastic.
san
peru, IL
Feb 24, 2015
jacket
Fits fantastic. Color is fantastic.
Richard
San Diego, CA
Feb 23, 2015
light weight
The pattern and design are terrific but the material is so light weight it hangs like a cheap T-shirt. A heavier material or lining might help.
Act II
Clay, WV
Feb 23, 2015
Great
Great accessory for pants and jacket that I ordered.
Act II
Clay, WV
Feb 23, 2015
Wonderful
Works great with jacket for a safari costume. Made nice..
Act Ii
Clay, WV
Feb 23, 2015
Great!
Great safari costume
BadTable Manor
Laguna Niguel, CA
Feb 23, 2015
High Quality Deluxe
Even more beautiful in real life. Well-stitched, beautiful fabric on both sides, and durable snaps n straps. The perfect accouterments to my Haunted Mansion Mandalorian costume. Will definitely shop with you again.

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