The Elegant Lady's Closet Pattern

I have made clothes and costumes for myself and my family, but this is my first time trying to make something worthy of the "period attire" title. What a great pattern the Elegant Lady's Closet by Sense & Sensibility has turned out to be....not only are the directions clear and illustrated, there is a website with tips and hints as well! I have made a ballgown that I will be proud to wear at a celebration for Pride & Prejudice's 200th Anniversary of publication, and I am already planning my next dress. I haven't had so much fun sewing in years! Any lady serious about an addition to her wardrobe in the Jane Austen era style should get this pattern. The choices of three different sleeves, two necklines and various arrangements of the skirt plus a reticule (handbag) and embroidery patterns make this a valuable multi-purpose necessity for every Regency Period enthusiast that enjoys sewing. I am very glad I purchased this pattern for my initial project, as it has been a terrific experience!

Finished my first dress with this pattern for an upcoming event. I am extremely happy with the results. I made several improvements in the finishing, since I hand embroider and found the crossover pattern very accommodating to my changes. The directions may be a bit too simple for someone's first time sewing their clothing. When she states.. Take your measurements with your intended undergarments do it. I used my current measurements and later found my bossoms in such a different location that I needed to add extra pleats which still worked out quite well with this pattern. I have purchased fabric for three more dresses and am excited to put them together! Much fun!!!

Ms. Chancey's patterns offer ease of use and the instruction booklet includes additional ideas and embellishment types. This is my third pattern purchase from Sense And Sensibility and I am sure I will add more as I love her style.

Fabulous pattern, easy to follow. A fun addition to my re-enacting wardrobe!