I had half these bodies done up forever! I finally decided to complete them to be worn for pregnancy. With the center front opening I just left the bottom portion loosely laced over the tummy and then tightened above to get a nice firm back support and bust support.

(more…)

Except for a lining for the upper back portion the loose gown is completed (this will be required since I edged the pair of bodies in bright white leather and it is showing through!). I should have lifted the mannequin so the front wasn’t dragging and looking funny – just imagine it is over a little pregnant belly .

(more…)

(more…)

I met a lovely lady at the Renaissance symposium this year who promptly contacted me for a peasants outfit. We worked long distance from measurements and had one fitting in person. She had the fabric in mind already and try as I did I wasn’t able to convince her to go with an all linen outfit. But the coif, apron, and flatcap are 100% linen. The coif and apron are decorated with red machine embroidery. I had to test the red thread in cold and hot water to make sure it won’t bleed on the lovely white linen. We sure don’t want pink linens!

(more…)

(more…)

(more…)

I’ll be slowly finding and putting up more construction photos of my wedding gown

The en fourreau back is a time consuming but dramatic detail on this gown. The back section of the bodice is cut in one piece with the skirting. Here you can see the beginnings of pleating the back section into place on the linen lining.

(more…)

A quick photo:

I think mostly I’m shocked how how much thread is going into quilting all these pieces for an arming doublet. I’m at 10 bobbins and counting…

I’ve completed my most recent pair of bodies. I’m delighted to report my client says they fit like a dream. Extra mock-ups were made to adapt this fully boned pattern to the individualites of her ribcage. It looks even more beaufitul in person because the subtle linen damask pattern.
(more…)