Post by modernmorland on Mar 8, 2008 19:55:34 GMT -5
The project I finished last week (a week ago today, actually, for a ball that evening) was a fairly simple, modern pattern modeled on Josephine Bonaparte's coronation gown, or so I assume. This is the first successful Regency gown I've constructed, and it was done almost entirely on a machine. The sizing was too large in the bodice (in circumference rather than length), but this problem was easily remedied on both pieces by changing the way they closed. I simply trimmed the belt of the overdress in the front and overlapped the edges of the dress in the back, since they're not visible anyway. The train was far too long for dancing, as you can see from the photograph, and I'd already shortened it from the pattern's specifications! The directions for attaching the "sleeve stays" confused me, but I muddled my way into a slapdash version of what the pattern called for, and it looked just fine. The drawstring did not extend all the way around the dress--merely took in the back portion--which is one thing I'd try to change if I had more time. I ended up eliminating it entirely, because it didn't seem as though it would do much good. I much prefer dresses that are tighter under the bust, though fortunately the overdress closure served much the same purpose. Speaking of which, the neckline of this gown is fairly squared off, which made undergarments a hassle since I don't have period stays. Despite these drawbacks, the result was a very pretty although no doubt inaccurate garment. I took an extra piece of fabric and made an accessory for my hair. I will probably use the pattern again, and it's one I would recommend for those who aren't too concerned about true period construction.
This is another picture of the dress, in action at the ball (if you can access it, of which I'm not at all confident): photos-c.ak.facebook.com/photos-ak-sf2p/v196/206/24/7607302/n7607302_32381986_7090.jpg
This is another picture of the dress, in action at the ball (if you can access it, of which I'm not at all confident): photos-c.ak.facebook.com/photos-ak-sf2p/v196/206/24/7607302/n7607302_32381986_7090.jpg
Where so many hours have been spent in convincing myself that I am right, is there not some reason to fear I may be wrong? ~ Jane Austen 