Hello everyone,
I am looking for some guidance on the Eleanor of Toledo gown. I have read
over Janet Arnold's write up of this dress and the book describes not one,
but two bodices based on remnants of the actual dress. The first bodice was
of velvet, and fastens at the front with hooks and eyes, and lined with
linen, but no matching skirt was found, although there are stitch-holes in
the waist.
The second bodice is of satin, with two seams at the back. It may have been
lined, but the evidence is not clear, per Arnold.
The book theorizes that the velvet bodice may have been a corset with bents,
or a "pair of bodies," set into the linen lining, to support an underskirt
of velvet.
So that's the back story. Based on that gown and the Elizabeth 1575 gown, I
have designed the following:
http://www.fantasy-sewing.com/images/dressconcept.jpg
My question is, if I wear a standard corset and farthingale, is there really
any need for the heavy under-bodice/skirt combo (kirtle?)? I am not sure yet
what I will make the overdress of, but it will probably be interlined
brocade, with something lighter for the underskirt and an interchangeable
forepart. I live in Michigan, and the faires here are held in the late heat
of summer, so I don't want to make it too heavy!
Natalie
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