A ballgown for Kristy!

Well people, I had intended to post this back in February, but I was hanging out for pictures of this with Kristy actually in it! My poor dress form just doesn't do this gown justice, and I don't have too many good pictures of it. However, Kristy and I just haven't been able to get together to take some pictures, and so I'm posting what I've got.

This is not strictly period. We bought the brocade from JoAnns, and it's not a natural fiber, but the pattern bears enough of a resemblance to period fabrics (to me!) that I didn't think it screamed "I'm a modern garment!" at the top of it's lungs. :D

It's actually closer to an 1850s style, with a longer bodice and double piping to finish off the hem of the bodice. Made in two pieces and whipped together, with hook and eye closure, which I've since discovered I did wrong! Glad to learn it, because it just wasn't working out. I did a modern hook and eye closure in the back, meaning that the fabric didn't overlap, it joins almost like an invisible zipper, only it seems that not matter how closely together I sewed them, there was a gap! I ended up putting in a modesty panel.












Enjoy!