What part of the Victorian era is she representing? McCalls and Butterick carry patterns that have the general line and pretty modern cut if she is just after the look, especially the 1840's-60's "Dickens' Christmas Carol"
If she wants 1850's-1865 and to be authentic in cut, go for the Martha McCain patterns for Simplicity that also include chemise, petticoat and hoopskirt patterns. Certainly not simple, but if she is also interested in reinacting or just a history buff, it might be worth the work. All three companies carry 1870-ish bustle back dress patterns. Butterick also has some Belle Epoque 1890-1905 pretty authentic-looking patterns in their "Making History series. Also, she'll want to fit in with the rest of the cast, unless she is doing a solo turn, so what is everyone wearing? Cindy Abel -----Original Message----- From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of Dawn Sent: Monday, October 10, 2005 3:13 PM To: Historical Costume Subject: Re: [h-cost] Victorian Costume pattern [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: > Greetings everyone, > > I'm asking this question for my future mother-in-law. She was chosen to be on stage for a holiday concert and needs to sew a Victorian gown. Of all of the mainstream pattern companies, which one would you choose to use for a project like this? Thanks for any assistance. > That would depend on which part of the "Victorian" period she wanted to represent. 1837-1901 is a BIG chunk of time and fashion. :) Simplicity generally covers the American Civil War years well. 1861-65. I have used the men's patterns and found them to be very detailed, and quite a bit of work. They also have two later dresses 1870-1880 ish, and an earlier pattern for 'Dickens carolers' (~1840) which are more 'costume' than reproduction. McCall's has a couple Civil War style ball gowns. Butterick's got a big hoop-skirt dress and a slimmer 1870ish dress. Again, these are more 'costume' patterns than clothing reproductions, but they could work well for stage without being too much fuss. Dawn _______________________________________________ h-costume mailing list [email protected] http://mail.indra.com/mailman/listinfo/h-costume _______________________________________________ h-costume mailing list [email protected] http://mail.indra.com/mailman/listinfo/h-costume
