Dicken's dresses. Black print Dicken's era style dresses (mid 1800s).
Images will show bodice plain and decorated. Black is usually reserved for
widows and mourning in Victorian times so the color choice for these
dresses may not be correct. Black print fabric had originally been used to make
matching slimmer skirts. Another width of fabric was added to make skirts
full enough for hoopskirt.
Items constructed for this costume:
Bodice
Black flannel/brushed cotton bodice with black print yoke and flange that crosses
in back. Self piping on
yoke, armsceye, side seam. Hook and eye front closure with pearlized buttons.
Peplum, sleeves and flange lined with black cotton/poly. Black fringe trim and black
and burgandy ribbon.
Pattern: McCalls M5132. Alterations include separating the yoke to utilize two
different fabrics and sewing the piped pieces into the seams instead of tacking
on afterwards.
With fringe:
With ribbon and collar:
Bodice 2
No trim on second bodice but sides were adjustable with buttonhole lacing and
black ribbon.
Skirt
Black print cotton gathered skirt with
set in waistband, back/side hook and eye closure, hidden pockets on seams.
Skirt 2
Second skirt similar but with drawstring inside waistband with grossgrain ribbon.
Sleeves
White cotton print sleeves with elastic casing at top, band of lace, and lace cuffs
with pearlized buttons.
Previous Incarnation
Previously skirts had been slimmer and worn with red satin embossed modern
style tops.