Edwardian Gown

We recently completed a custom Edwardian Era gown for a client in Philadelphia. The gown was based upon this 1911 Delineator illustration:

The gown features a fitted underbodice of floral taffeta with a kimono overbodice of solid taffeta. Both are fitted into a waistband. The overskirt is the same floral taffeta and the trained underskirt is solid. The sleeve and skirt trimming is cotton velveteen. A removable velveteen sash was also included.

Initially I intended to gather up one side of the overskirt to create the sloped silhouette as shown in the original Delineator image. However, the gathers made the overskirt pouf in a rather unbecoming manner and thus I elected to remove the internal gathering and leave the skirt straight. In hindsight, if I had cut the overskirt wider on the side I intended to gather, I believe it would solve the poufing issue. Next time, I will try it and let you know!

Enjoy!

About Susan

Hi! My name is Susan and I am a historian, seamstress, teacher, mother, and wife. My passion for history has manifested itself in the art of recreating clothing from different periods of time. Growing up in the American South, I am heavily schooled in the art of recreating clothing from the 19th century. After nearly a decade of immersing myself primarily in the Victorian period, I found the need to branch out and explore other periods of time. However, it is my connection with the American South and the clothing of rural America that continues to be the driving force behind my designs. View all posts by Susan