so it begins

[jennylafleur]

Don't faint - it's sewing content! Well almost... I am getting ready to start on the costume for my Victoriana party next Sunday. I've been dragging my feet about this for weeks so I think some online accountability is in order. This is your official costume progress spam warning!

I'm reviving the 1870s Black & White Bustle ensemble I started in *goes to look it up* - geez 2006! That is embarrassing. Well better late than never, right?


When last this project saw the light of day I had just finished the skirt which I've posted a pic of to refresh the collective memory. So next step is the bodice, which will be made using Truly Victorian #405. I'm not entirely sure how I'm going to decorate with laces and trims, I'll figure that out along the way. So I just cleaned my room, read through the pattern, put on my newly finished dore corset and took measurements. Exciting no? Next step is the mock up.

I have a question for you bustle people out there though. The directions don't mention it but should I pipe any seams? I know that is common in the 1860s, had it become unfashionable by the 1870s or was it left off the pattern for simplicity in construction. I love the look of a piped seam but I don't want to make my life more difficult for no reason. Especially since I'm trying to make this bodice in less than a week. Thoughts oh LJ Oracle?

Comments

[quincy134.livejournal.com]

My impression on piping (and this is just a guess) is that it was pretty common in 1870s stuff and then fading away as we head towards the 1880s. The two extant bodices I own, which are 1880s, do not have piping.

[jennylafleur.livejournal.com]

Thanks!