The detachable train needs a few more stitches put in and the closure but it is looking fantastic with the dress! The bodice fitting went well and I worked out the overlap for the correct sized buttonstand, although we are going to do fake buttons to keep from putting any holes in the garment that will make it harder to alter over the lifetime of my client wearing it. I do like how real buttonholes look but I love being able to move things around easier by doing it with hooks behind a false button placket. Anyway on to more pictures…
(more…)

Long detachable train edged in lovely pleats:

(more…)

Our first fitting of “real” fabric went off without a hitch. I leveled the bottom pleated edge of the skirt and fitted a bodice mock-up.

(more…)

We are waiting till Dickens ends & Rene is out off school before doing a photo-shoot but here are some photos she took as I was finishing up the final stitching:

(more…)

(more…)

Here is a preview shot of both models together in-between their individual photoshoots:

Thank you Laura and Shevek

I decided on the black to match the girdle although the purple looked very classy as well:

Here is the final result:

I’ve included more construction photos behind the cut showing insertion of the drawstring.
(more…)

The panels are all constructed and awaiting grommets. The back panel still needs to be made once I get the embroidery done on the lining. Everything has to be done in order

The lace is pinned into place and will be hand-sewn tomorrow. The bones are all cut and binding ready to apply after a fitting to double check the height of the corset with the increase reduction from the initial mock-up. There is quite a curvy shape here. I can’t wait to see it on a body.

I’m considering binding it in purple instead of the black. I need to determine the sizing of the binding that will work best with the ribbon laced through it for the top edge. I’m rather fond of the 1/4″ binding but 1/2″ might be called for in this situation. I’ve been told to “play” so all the options are possible. I just need to pick what works best!

Here is the center front of purple corset featuring a black girdle with the boning channels sewn. The lace detail will be hand-sewn on after construction is completed. The purple silk glows black from an angle and ties in with the black stitching so well.

(more…)