Sewing Project: 1700s Colonial Williamsburg printed gown

I have been absent from the blog this summer, mostly due to our numerous travels and road trips. Which have been absolutely amazing can't lie. But I am sorry for my post neglect.  Now that I am home long enough to get a post together, I'm very excited to share one of my biggest sewing projects! Our church's teen history trip in July spent two days in Colonial Williamsurg, and I spent a few weeks leading up to the trip sewing a historical gown for the occasion.  It was 100 degrees outside those two days, but it was completely worth it. ;)

This is my second attempt at an 18th Century dress, but my first where I looked for historical accuracy.  I ordered the fabric in specifically from Williamsburg and set to altering a pattern.  There are also several layers under the dress to give it the proper shape of the times: Shift; Stockings; Stays; Pocket; Bum-roll/hip-roll; Petticoat; Neckerchief; Dress. (Perhaps I should do a post on all of the underpinnings later?)  The stomacher (front panel) of the dress is removable, and the petticoat ties shut.

Now, I did my research, but there are several nuances that I was not sure of, so I bought myself two books while there to hopefully help in the future.  I know there are seamstresses out there who are more well-versed in historical sewing than I am, so if you have any tips I would love to hear them! I feel as though I should have another petticoat, and perhaps a lighter neckerchief (although it actually does match in person.) The sleeves are a bit off, but they were so tricky I wasn't going to try and alter the pattern there any more. My stays could have been laced a bit tighter but...it was hot. Also, I believe I should have a hat, or at least some head covering, but I was low on packing space and my hat did not quite work with my dress. All of that aside, I was very excited with the way it turned out.  Really, nothing beats going to such a historical place and feeling like you a truly a part of it! 

Dressing Like Jane Austen

I must say, I have a love for all things Jane Austen.  When I heard about the "I Love Austen Week" hosted by Hamlette I knew I had to participate (even though vacation planning put me almost too late.) There are lots of fun reviews currently being posted by all sorts of Jane Austen lovers right here, and I highly suggest you go check them out if you too are a fan of her works. And if you are not familiar with Jane Austen, you especially should go look around, and be prepared to find a new wondrous world opened up to you!

My post today is a quick look at how we can find ways to create our own regency wear with what we have on hand in today's world.

The First basic item, of course, is your gown.  The fabric, style, and colors can very depending on the type of event you are attending, or your own personal preferences. I chose my colors when I was sixteen, and this was my first historical project, so my colors are a bit darker than period accurate - but I liked them anyway. ;) I have worked with the Simplicity pattern 4055 with much success (pictured here) and Butterick B6074 (with alterations and changes because it was far less agreeable.)

Next are accessories.  Elbow length gloves are perfect (watch that you match creams and/or whites, depending on your gown color!) Also a small reticule is great to have to hold your personal items for the night. Thrift stores and antique stores are probably the best places to start looking for these.

Jewelry is not difficult.  Simplicity was valued, so a modest set of pearls or a small cross on a chain will accent the dress nicely. Hair adornments were also a favorite, and really such fun! I found all of these at Charming Charlies.

Don't forget to go join the fun yourself, and look around!