Beautiful pattern, so had to try it. I love that the big three are finally putting a bit more thought into the historical costumes. I found it an easy pattern if a bit fiddly (button loops and the edging). Think it was a bit oversized, used a 14-16, even though the pattern recommended an 18. The Primary modification made was in the skirt. I did it without the layers since I needed a skirt that was wearable with my early period reenactment. The corset suited my hourglass figure very well, though I did get many “prow of a ship” comments. The chemise on the other-hand found a bit undersized, very tight around the upper arms. But came out lovely. I used my 16th century drawers and Spanish farthingale for the hoops.
Rated 5 out of 5
Lisa –
This is the new Civil War gown. It is the very best of the very few Simplicity patterns I have ever worked. I made different sleeves, didn’t use the peplum, and didn’t make the skirt. I TRIED to use the peplum but it wasn’t flattering. It either needed more or less fullness. I ended up with an improvised tail at the back. The sizing was fairly accurate. Pay attention to the bust darts; they are appallingly high as you can tell by the dimples in the photo on the cover of the pattern. I dropped the darts by 1.5 inches. Everyone is using this pattern, and despite the changes I made, each time I wear it someone comments that they are making the same dress.
Rated 4 out of 5
Annette –
I haven’t finished this yet, but at this point I can honestly say that this pattern will take a great deal of time and patience. The directions include many instructions that are unnecessary and not useful. They are confusing and time-consuming. An experienced seamtress could work around them. If you want to make a very impressive and magnificent costume, this is it.
Rated 5 out of 5
M.A. –
I used this bodice pattern for my wedding ensemble (very late 1800s-ish inspired, mostly). I made modifications to the sleeve (it was June, after all) and the front closure; and minor adjustments to the side seams so the bodice would fit over my corset. The peplum was fiddlely but, my bodice is finished. My bodice is finished exactly the same on the inside as on the outside (essentially, it looks reversible except in the sleeves). I used two sets of old shoulder pads instead of making the bust pads (that are part of the pattern). The shoulder pads substitute worked fine.
Rated 5 out of 5
Monique –
A muslin is an absolute must for the bodice. It does fit beautifully and will look just like the photograph but, the peplum is very tricky. The peplum is cut in a circle, then you fold/press it into a triangle and attach it to the bodice. Attach it first by hand-basting. It is very hard to work the fabric into the bodice. You’ll pin, re-pin, baste, re-baste, press, machine stitch. It is worth the effort. The final result is flattering and elegant. The skirt is straightforward but, takes a loooong time. You will get sick of sewing around and around and around. The skirt takes a lot of fabric. Once it is put over a hoop, this is a dress that takes up a lot of room. If you want to make an entrance, this is a dress for you.
Natasha –
Beautiful pattern, so had to try it. I love that the big three are finally putting a bit more thought into the historical costumes. I found it an easy pattern if a bit fiddly (button loops and the edging). Think it was a bit oversized, used a 14-16, even though the pattern recommended an 18. The Primary modification made was in the skirt. I did it without the layers since I needed a skirt that was wearable with my early period reenactment. The corset suited my hourglass figure very well, though I did get many “prow of a ship” comments. The chemise on the other-hand found a bit undersized, very tight around the upper arms. But came out lovely. I used my 16th century drawers and Spanish farthingale for the hoops.
Lisa –
This is the new Civil War gown. It is the very best of the very few Simplicity patterns I have ever worked. I made different sleeves, didn’t use the peplum, and didn’t make the skirt. I TRIED to use the peplum but it wasn’t flattering. It either needed more or less fullness. I ended up with an improvised tail at the back. The sizing was fairly accurate. Pay attention to the bust darts; they are appallingly high as you can tell by the dimples in the photo on the cover of the pattern. I dropped the darts by 1.5 inches. Everyone is using this pattern, and despite the changes I made, each time I wear it someone comments that they are making the same dress.
Annette –
I haven’t finished this yet, but at this point I can honestly say that this pattern will take a great deal of time and patience. The directions include many instructions that are unnecessary and not useful. They are confusing and time-consuming. An experienced seamtress could work around them. If you want to make a very impressive and magnificent costume, this is it.
M.A. –
I used this bodice pattern for my wedding ensemble (very late 1800s-ish inspired, mostly). I made modifications to the sleeve (it was June, after all) and the front closure; and minor adjustments to the side seams so the bodice would fit over my corset. The peplum was fiddlely but, my bodice is finished. My bodice is finished exactly the same on the inside as on the outside (essentially, it looks reversible except in the sleeves). I used two sets of old shoulder pads instead of making the bust pads (that are part of the pattern). The shoulder pads substitute worked fine.
Monique –
A muslin is an absolute must for the bodice. It does fit beautifully and will look just like the photograph but, the peplum is very tricky. The peplum is cut in a circle, then you fold/press it into a triangle and attach it to the bodice. Attach it first by hand-basting. It is very hard to work the fabric into the bodice. You’ll pin, re-pin, baste, re-baste, press, machine stitch. It is worth the effort. The final result is flattering and elegant. The skirt is straightforward but, takes a loooong time. You will get sick of sewing around and around and around. The skirt takes a lot of fabric. Once it is put over a hoop, this is a dress that takes up a lot of room. If you want to make an entrance, this is a dress for you.