"I am rather impatient to know the fate of my best gown."
by HML
Time for a JASNA ball gown update! First, here’s a set of fabric, ribbon, and beads. The picture doesn’t really do justice to the ribbon. It’s actually mauve-colored, but looks gold when held at just the right angle. The ribbon will trim the neckline, sleeves, and skirt hem. Little beads will be sewn into the ribbon and lace to add some sparkle; the larger beads hold the lace overdress together across the front. Tamara is continually thinking of new ideas for the dress; after she sent me these samples she decided to add a layer of gold mesh to the underside of the lace to add substance and depth to the color. It looks stunning, and the combined fabric still has a nice classical drape to it. The mesh will also peek out from under the ribbon for a tiny ruffled effect.
The first fitting was last Friday. I wore the corset and petticoat while Tamara made adjustments to the petticoat, the bodice of the gown, and sections of the lace overdress. The overdress will be detachable so it can be worn with a different gown, or the gown itself can be worn alone. Given Jane Austen’s own fondness for mixing and matching her accessories to make multiple outfits, this is very appropriate.
The second fitting will be in a couple of weeks. Tamara’s enthusiasm for the project is infectious; I was already very excited to see how the gown will look, and now The Gimlet (!) has agreed to don a waistcoat and cravat for the banquet and ball.
September 2nd, 2007 20:15
My gown arrived, and I am very happy with it, but I think yours will outshine it! It looks gorgeous! But I’m just so happy I finally got it together to get one made I can’t see straight. Maybe I’ll get a “real” ballgown next year…
The seamstress sent a big hunk of leftover fabric and some lace that I think I will use to make a headdress. My pearl and amber jewelry will match perfectly. Not so sure about the fan, but I don’t care as much about that.
Is your gown trained? Mine is, and I didn’t think about dancing in it…I guess I can pin it up.
September 2nd, 2007 21:46
My gown’s going to be a little more full in the back, but I decided not to have a train.
Can’t wait to see your gown!
The waistcoat & cravat arrived over the weekend. Instant Austen Gentleman! But your next book should have instructions for tying cravats.
October 18th, 2007 04:53
[...] love the dress she had made for the occasion, and the regency wear her husband wore. If you click here and here and here for her posts leading up to the conference, you can follow the progression of the [...]