The Regency has always been one of my favorite social eras and not just because I love Jane Austen. Recently I reread Pride and Prejudice for my English class and I was inspired to make more Regency dresses. I see a pattern in my sewing, I love lots of fashion eras but I always end up making more Regency dresses and 1920s dresses than anything else. Why is that? Probably because they are beautiful and yes... probably the most simple construction to do on the fly.
Anyway I was inspired by the classic white regency look of Lizzy's Netherfield Ball gown from the 2005 film version.
So I scrounged together enough fine Italian cotton from an abandoned Chemise a la Reine project and started working. I made a simple cross front that gathered and pins or hooks into place. Then the skirt, which sort of drops down in the front, is secured by hooks at the waistline. I took some casual photos the other night, but I really hate being photographed in costume so forgive me if I look uncomfortable or awkward!
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| My mother put a painting filter over one of the pictures |
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| And then my dog Charlie interrupted |
The dress is very simple but very sweet in person. I was restricted by not really having quite enough fabric, but I think I made do! The dress is 100% cotton and completely hand sewed! I'm very pleased with the results and I look forward to wearing it. I also worked on a red taffeta regency dress, but I don't have a good fabric for the under dress so I shelved that project.
