In the first two weeks of March I will be attending not one, but two events that are outside the Regency era! It's very exciting, but I may be a little insane because these two events are not only back-to-back weekends, but also wildly different periods. :p
On March 5, the annual Battle of Hampton Roads event takes place at the Mariner's Museum, and I have been invited to participate! Of course, I have absolutely nothing 1860s. Yet.
Inspiration |
Fabric and potential patterns |
I have not yet decided which pattern I am going to use, but I'm leaning towards 1818, which I just bought yesterday. (99 cent Simplicity patterns at JoAnn's!) I think the coat sleeves are better suited to such a large plaid, and I was already planning on attempting to make the bodice and skirt separate when I was looking at using 4400. I like the idea of future mix-and-match potential. I welcome any input from people who have done 1860s, because I'm very new to the era!
The second event is the fabulous Francaise Dinner on March 12! I have been yearning to attend this annual dinner for a couple of years now, but lack of proper attire (and some scheduling conflicts) has held me back. I had intended to make a robe a la Francaise for this year's dinner, but that has not happened. I admit to being frightened of the prospect. However, I have learned that a Francaise is not required for the dinner, just 18th Century formal wear in general. Hooray!
...I have no 18th Century formal wear. :p I have exactly two outfits, both of which are very informal:
However, I do have this old thing:
Isn't it lovely? :p |
Might need a ruffle |
Of course I also need petticoats for the 1860s gown, as well as a chemise and possibly drawers. (I already have a corset that will work, at least.) And if I go with the second pattern, I'll need a chemisette and undersleeves (which are fortunately included in the pattern).
I also need to finish my 18th Century stays, and make a new shift if I have time. The one I have is cotton, and I'd prefer a linen one. The striped gown also needs neck and sleeve ruffles, in addition to the repairs and self-trim which are already underway. And I have ambitious plans for re-covering a pair of American Duchess shoes with embroidered silk, which may or may not happen in time. I'm going to be very busy for the next month!
I look forward to seeing you at the Battle of Hampton Roads! Have you thought about making a sheer summer dress from your plaid voile? It would be very well suited to that style of dress, and then you'd be all set for any summer events too!
ReplyDeleteOoh, that does sound lovely! I shall do some more research. I look forward to seeing you, too!
DeleteAlthough plaid doesn't seem to be very popular during the Regency, there are extant gowns of plaid, so you CAN go plaid for Regency if you want. I know I do. This most famous example of a Regency plaid gown is one that I someday want to replicate for my wardrobe: https://fashionpluslifestyle.wordpress.com/2013/11/07/trend-ology-new-exhibition-to-open-at-the-museum-at-fit/p88-9-1_20131007_1_perfectlyclear/#main
ReplyDeleteI found a similar plaid in silk down in NC, but I am not ready to make it yet, so I passed it up.
Oooh, that is a lovely gown! So far I haven't found a plaid fabric that speaks to me for Regency, but it's good to keep in mind. :) I would like to add more variety to my wardrobe, since it's become my main era of focus.
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