Choose the location where your novel be set. Life in the 1800s was different all over the world. Even America and Britain, though they had many similarities, had so many differences that care must be taken by the novelist. Pinpointing the location for your novel before you research will help bring a greater degree of accuracy to your work.
Determine what part of the 1800s will be the setting of your novel. The early 19th century was different than the late 19th century in regards to lifestyle, clothing, speech and important world events.
Research the style of clothing worn during the 1800s in the location of the world you have selected. Men, women and children all dressed vastly different from each other and to make your novel realistic, the style of clothing must fit the time period and location.
Research the style of speech in the 1800s. Purchasing books written in the 1800s will help you understand the type of language used during the time period. This will help make your character's conversations authentic sounding.
Visit local museums and antique shops that specialize in vintage 1800s effects. This will help you imagine the world and the setting and enable you to write about it more clearly and vividly. Many museums are dedicated to the 1800s since it was such an interesting time of life.