Sizes 6-26 all included in one envelope.
The construction of the dresses offered in the 1780 Portrait Dress pattern comes from the study of dozens of portraits, plus scrutiny of extant gowns for women from this time period, but conventional machine techniques described in the instructions allow for ease of sewing. If you are a die-hard who wants an authentic gown, an appendix is included with all the vintage sewing steps laid out in detail. This pattern includes options for a smooth-bodice dress that fastens up the front, a polonaise with pointed bodice front, and a drawstring bodice dress that slips over the head. It also offers elbow-length sleeves with optional ruffles and fitted long sleeves. Please note that correct underpinnings are required for views 1 and 2. This pattern features illustrated instructions with appendices on authentic 18th-century sewing techniques and correct underpinnings. The drawstring dress option will work over conventional modern underthings if you prefer.
Posted by Unknown on 31st Jul 2017
I was pleasantly surprised to find this pattern included three different versions of a portrait dress - straight bodice, polonaise, and drawstring gown. Sewing my first historic dress came with a bit of anxiety after reading reviews on other patterns. I am not a professional seamstress, but have sewing experience. I chose to make the drawstring gown since I did not have the underpinnings for a fitted bodice. The pattern and instructions were clearly written and the dress fit together perfectly.