Alena wanted to be a colonial girl for Halloween this year, so several months ago we picked out a pattern and bought it on sale. Then, last week, we went to JoAnn's and wandered the aisles together looking at all the glorious fabric. She chose the blue satin first, and then we had to search for just the right complement to it. We had at least 20 different bolts of fabric in and out of our cart, and then we spotted this lovely paisley and both of us just knew, it was perfect!
This is the bodice, we modifed the ribbon detailing to make it look more balanced. We ended up adding a modesty panel in the neckline, because it was too loose when she bent over (see below).
This is the bodice, we modifed the ribbon detailing to make it look more balanced. We ended up adding a modesty panel in the neckline, because it was too loose when she bent over (see below).
This is the detail on the sleeve, it is quintesentially 1800's.
The completed dress - note the modesty panel above the lace detailing at the neck. The pattern neglected to say that a petticoat of some kind is essential for the form of this dress to look correct. Luckily, we had a tulle petticoat in our dress-up box.
It's quite elegant. I can't wait to see her in it, with her hair and makeup!
