>In between working on the Etsy store, doing sales taxes (every year I swear I’ll be better at bookeeping and I’m not!) and normal goings on around here I’ve been puttering away at my Regency evening gown. The ball is less than a week away, so I don’t have much time! Thankfully, though, the bulk of it is done so all that is left is the finishing (hem, binding, etc) and the trimming, which could be left undone if I needed to.
It’s been a long while since I’ve had a proper excuse to do a historical gown from scratch, so I admit I’m having a lot of fun with this project! The fabric is silk taffeta that I bought on sale at fabrics.com several months ago. Although I had bookmarked it at first for a 1950s “princess” evening gown, and then an 1840s gown, it ended up as this and I’m happy to say that I think it was meant to be! I am surprised, however, that the gown has nearly eaten up the whole 7 yards of fabric at 60″ wide that I had! Usually I don’t think of gowns from this period taking much fabric but with the size of the skirt (this is a later period than I’ve ever done for Regency), bias for the cording and the trims, and the fact that I’ve bookmarked some for undersleeves to make it convertible into a day dress, it’s not that surprising.
Next up is hemming and then finishing the points of the trim. Probably no more pics before the Ball as I want it to be a surprise!
Hope everyone is having a fabulous weekend!
stephanie
January 17, 2010 at 11:53 pm (15 years ago)>The dress is lovely! A very nice color too!
The Dreamstress
January 18, 2010 at 2:12 am (15 years ago)>Oooh…I love everything about it! The peacock blue colour (which would also have been divine for 1840s)…the shape, the trim. Late Regency can be a bit unattractive, but this is just sublime! You are going to be such an elegant couple! I can't wait to see pics!
The Glamorous Housewife
January 18, 2010 at 3:20 am (15 years ago)>Stunning. It reminds me of when I was studying costume design in college. *sigh* Those were the good old days. Thanks doll,The Glamorous Housewife
Amanda
January 18, 2010 at 4:25 am (15 years ago)>Absolutely gorgeous! You are quite talented. I love it! Great color choice.
Debi
January 18, 2010 at 6:52 am (15 years ago)>Fantastic! It's so amazing. I can't wait to see more pictures!!
Enken
January 18, 2010 at 11:11 am (15 years ago)>Hello! I just found your blog and absolutely love what you are doing, and the beautiful dresses you have sewn! I'm just getting into more historical sewing myself (I mostly make 40's to 60's stuff) so your Regency dress is very inspiring. Can't wait to see more!
Leslie
January 18, 2010 at 6:49 pm (15 years ago)>Oh I love Regency gowns. This one is very beautiful. I can' wait to see the finished product!!
Brook
January 19, 2010 at 1:23 am (15 years ago)>lovely!
casey
January 19, 2010 at 5:58 pm (15 years ago)>This is looking so gorgeous, Lauren! I just love all the details–especially the sleeves. I think that is one of my favorite aspects of gowns from this era: the sleeve embellishment. I have been known to page through my fashion books for hours just looking at the sleeves! haha!That fabric is a perfect match for the style too! Absolutely lovely!♥ Caseyblog | elegantmusings.com
Darla: Retro Ways
January 19, 2010 at 7:45 pm (15 years ago)>Gosh your work is stunning, I love each piece more then the last!♥Darla