Recently, I have been slightly obsessed with the extravagantness and elaborateness of "bustle gowns." Particularly those in the early 1880s. In that period, (from 1875-1883) the bustle became very small, creating a much slimmer line. Although the bustle was not as large, the draping and trims made up for it. Last fall, I decided to try to draft a bodice pattern out of an authentic pattern, but it is difficult to size up historical patterns for modern sizes. Yesterday, my mom and I were looking at some antique clothing sites, and I was newly inspired. These are the websites:
http://www.antiquedress.com/ and
http://vintagetextile.com/The details are so incredible, and I have never seen a reproduction gown that is costructed that well. I really would like to make one like this
http://www.antiquedress.com/item6179.htm but perhaps in a different color.
Here is the second draft of my bodice - improved lines in the back from the one I made last fall.
The Back:
The Front:
I am really going about it backwards. In order to get the correct fit and period lines, the undergarments should be made first. Before I can go any farther, I will have to make an 1870s corset.My other project has been to make a "robe à la française" Again - the undergarments must come first.
Here is the in-process pair of stays made out of dupioni silk, canvas interfacing, and cotton lining(pinned to the "Dresselda," my dress dummy):
This is the general look I'm going for.....
