Regency frock

[madamemodiste]

So I've decided to finally tackle a Regency dress. I have that white on white striped voile left over from the Chemise a la Reine as well as a few patterns on hand. I have the Sense and Sensibility Elegant Lady's Closet and the Simplicity version of her Regency Gown pattern. I can't decide if I want a flatter, less gathered bodice like in the Simplicity evening version or if I want the gathered drawstring version. I'm doing elbow length sleeves. What do you think? I feel the non-gathered version will make me look less frumpy. As a girl of average height with curves, I have to consider such things.

I then plan to make an open robe of my black and red striped taffeta

Comments

[madamekat.livejournal.com]

Thanks so much for all your advice!

Yeah, my first "Regency" has those huge poufs sleeves and though I'm a fan of a big sleeve, I realized too late that it didn't look right for this era. I have seen fashion plates with slightly poufed short sleeves. I plan on doing a sleeve like in your icon there (minus the gorgeous embroidery, of course).

I'll put the Simplicity pattern back in the drawer and just work off of the S&S pattern. Since I'm new to this era, I'd better stick to minor adjustments until I get the hang of the shape and construction.