Description

Pattern for a two piece ensemble inspired from the historical fashions of the 1860s when the day-wear dresses were high necked. It was unseemly for a woman to show skin before late afternoon. As pale skin was the style, necks and shoulders had to be covered to avoid the sun.

Sleeves were full, widest at the elbow, erupting from a gathered shoulder seam. The skirts were full, gathered or pleated and worn over petticoats or crinolines.
The Bishop sleeve featured in our pattern design has the gathered shoulder, wide elbow, and narrowed at the wrist.

Hair Style: The ideal women of the pre-Civil War South had pale skin and a rounded face. Hair was parted down the center and drawn back, with soft loops on each side of the face that accentuated a round face.

Pattern is multi-sized for two popular 18 doll sizes:
~ For 18 inch regular dolls such as American Girl® and
~ For 18 slim Carpatina , Magic Attic® or Kidz n Cats® Dolls

Recommended Fabrics: Light weight woven fabrics, cotton, linen

Supplies Needed:
– 1 2 yard main fabric
– 1 4 yard lining
– 1 yard lace trim
– 6 Snaps or hook and eye for closure
– Matching thread