This dress is made from a pink and burgundy cotton calico stripe (Dye Pot Collection), based on Past Patterns #903 Late 1880-1892 Day Dress pattern. There are 23 buttons and buttonholes down the front. What appears to be a gap in the front below my waist is actually a glove holder hanging from the bottom buttonhole. On subsequent dresses, I've added a loop to a side seam to hold this or other accessories, which looks much better.The bodice is fully lined. The two-part sleeves have an added puff of fabric encasing the upper arm. The skirt is extremely full. There is a small watch pocket at the waist front, and a large pocket which seems awkwardly placed on the side back but which still comes in handy.
The hat is not terribly authentic but was the best I could do at midnight the night before the event where this dress made its debut. Those readers who've attended these kinds of events will, I'm sure, sympathize. At least I didn't have to hem the skirt in the car en route.
I have sewn a number of historic-reporduction garments for various events. In this photo, taken at a tea I hosted, most of the members are wearing Victorian and Edwardian dresses they've made themselves. I am in the front in green, wearing the Unique Patterns of Historic Fashion Gibson Girl walking skirt and blouse. I don't recommend this pattern line as it is difficult to work with and awkwardly-sized.
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