confused

hey guys, i need some 'translating' done! what do 'gauging' and 'plaiting' mean in reference to 19th C skirts? i know it's some kind of way of attaching the waiostband, but can't quite work out what! is gauging like cartridge pleating?
on another note, i still haven't taken a photo of all my fabrics, and even if i had it wouldn't help me as i'm posting this from work. i finished a commisioned bear last night, for someone at work, but then forgot to bring it this morning, DUH... and i've got loads of expensive jewellery for my stall, now i just need to make some more cheaper stuff to round it out and i'll be set. we're going to devon next week and as long as i have lots of 'skins' sewn up on the machine to take with me i can make a load of bears while we're there.
expect me to be sewing costumes with a will after the fair on the 2nd december! i CANNOT WAIT!
any way, i hope some of you lovely ladies can help me, i'm very confused!