I'm not really in a rut but I have been on a slight break with my costume sewing. I also sew modern clothing and my summer wardrobe was looking pretty sad. So I set aside some time to make new tops. I still have some additional items to make but I started to get bored with modern clothing, as you do. It's always a challenge keeping myself focused on current projects. My mind starts to wander. Lately it's been wandering to the 18th century.
Tailor's Guide gown, again:
I have attended Vampire's Masquerade Ball for the last several years. It's in Portland, Oregon. This year they had a new venue! The Portland Art Museum. I decided to make a new 18th century gown because I totally need another......;-)
I dug out my Tailor's Guide 1750-1785 gown & short gown pattern. I have already reviewed this pattern in 2016. I have no clue about historical accuracy but it does make a lovely gown. Also I finally learned to make pretty and very silly five loop bows thanks to the American Duchess 18th century sewing book. So I took advantage of my new skill and put 5 of those puppies on my new creation.
The dress went together without any problems. Sometimes it's nice to use a familiar pattern. I also didn't need to make a new petticoat. I used the same one I made for my first Tailor's Guide dress. Score! The candy cane striped silk has been in my stash for a couple years. I was down to scraps when I finished. It is so satisfying to use stash fabric and to be happy with the result.
I'm in love with my Dames a la Mode necklace and earrings! I decided on clear stones with a gold setting. That way I can wear other color earrings with the necklace. I am having an ongoing love affair with her Girandole earrings. They look so decadent. I felt "extra" fancy at VMB.
Me and Ms. T.
In the dark ballroom at VMB
I had my youngest take some decent photos of the new gown once I had finished it. I also did a dry run with my hair and feathers.
Feeling very queenly and super fancy!
I also purchased a "piety" brooch to wear from Queen and Cavendish on Etsy. It's quite lovely! I have a pair of earrings from her shop as well that I wore to the Outlander Ball in April.
A bit more 18th century:
JP Ryan English Nightgown redux.
I went back and re-trimmed my first 18th century silk gown I had made for Venice is Sinking back in 2016. I wanted something less flashy that could be worn during the day or evening. I LOVE the fabric I used for this dress. Chartreuse green! One of my favorite colors. It had a lot of gold metallic trim and sequins on it plus the skirt decorations were meh... I had only worn it the one time to VIS and it has been languishing in my closet ever since.
I pulled off all the gold trim, sequins and sad little skirt bows. I had a silk rem that was pink floral striped so I pinked narrow strips and stitched them on top of the existing pink silk trim. I also replaced the sleeve ruffles and added a bow to the bodice. I love the new look! Now I just need an excuse to wear it!
This would be for evening but I can easily add a fichu and cap for a more formal daywear look.
2016 on the left and 2019 on the right.
And last but not least it's time for a proud mama post!
I am pleased to announce that my youngest is going to be participating in the Northwest Colonial Festival! He will be part of the Redcoat unit fighting against the Patriots during the battles of Lexington and Concord. The festival is August 8-11th at the George Washington Inn in Port Angeles, Washington.
There was a meet up last month in Port Gamble and my boy was happily accepted into the British army. At 14 he is old enough to discharge a weapon so of course he is thrilled!
Serious picture time.
Trying to pass muster.
Learning to properly discharge a weapon.
Proud mom!
Heading off to battle!
