Something made

Yesterday when I was feeling discouraged I decided I needed a (relatively) simple task, so I made a new shift.

I had only one I was sharing between 18th c and Regency, so now I have a change.

I used Kaufman handkerchief linen, actually a 60/40 linen and cotton blend, and the diagram in Costume Close Up. It seemed huge but I was tired and didn't feel like thinking much so I just went with it.

I did it all on the machine, with French seams on the body, which makes a slight lump where they all line up at the side gores, and flat felled seams on the sleeves and underarm gusset. The only part I handsewed was the pair of eyelets at the neckline for the drawstring.

It took me about 3 hours start to finish, which is faster than I used to be, so yay. And it did come out really big and floopy. Maybe one day I will actually devote time to making Perfect Undies, but for now at least I won't have to wear a sweaty gross shift the third day of coco.

Decision

I'm doing the green ruffly bustle dress for the gala. Today I am making the evening bodice. I took the pattern I used for the day bodice and altered the neckline to make it low for evening. And I am going to proceed WITHOUT A MOCKUP. dun dun duuuun!!

I will have it close in front with hooks/ fake buttons, and I am thinking of using a separate, removable bertha for trim. Early 70s ballgown bodices still did that right? Mostly I am motivated by convenience. On my 1860s ballgown the bertha made trimming so easy to make and wear.

For bodice trim I will mimic the ruffles on the skirt and probably add some lace and bows.

Clearly at this point I am feeling the need to post every fleeting thought that passes through my head.