This high-waisted dress known today as "empire" was worn in the period following the French Revolution in the late 1700s. The revealing style, requiring few undergarments, reflected a desire to return to simpler, classical Grecian dress after the excesses of the European nobility. Narrow bodice is gathered into a skirt that is slim in front and full in back. The optional full-length train and sleeve details make it perfect for a bridal fashion. Suggested fabrics: Soft, lightweight or medium-weight fabrics such as cotton gauze, batiste, dotted Swiss, rayon challis, silk, very lightweight silk velvet with drape.
K**H
Easy enough, pretty results!
I'm a seamstress of about beginner-intermediate level skill (I've sewed some projects but this was my first full dress from a pattern), and I was able to put this together with just about no hitches. It held up nicely at the regency ball I attended (which meant a lot of dancing, obviously!). I made mine out of cotton lawn, but it would be lovely in other floaty fabrics like voile or silk.
S**7
Empire Dress Pattern
The dress was difficult to put together. Once it was done, it looked great. I have a 40 inch bust, so I had to cut the back and insert two bands of elastic,one for the top, and one for the empire waist. I made the largest size available. I will try to sew another dress from the pattern and see how it goes.
K**T
Nice
It's very pretty and I love how it give you three length choices and it seems very elegant. Definitely not a beginner's pattern as I have been trying to figure it out for quite some time, but still can't wait to finish it.
S**F
Pretty pattern
Looks good, can't wait to make!
M**E
Nice Regency costume
I made this dress for my sister out of a very thin dotted swiss & used the long train option. I didn't have many problems putting it together & the result was a graceful Regency costume.
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2 months ago
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