Merida Inspired 1860's Dress

I am beyond thrilled to share with you my finished product of my Merida inspired 1860's dress. I went through a phase of procrastination but when I finally realized how soon I would need all of my finished garments, I surprised myself by getting it finished quicker than I thought. (It's amazing what a little motivation will do!)
     Let me start off by showing some of the patterns I used.  I used two patterns for the shirt and did the skirt by basic knowledge( Basically I cut three panels of the material and sewed them together, gathered it, put it on a waistband, and hemmed it).  I used Simplicity 8735 a Renaissance pattern that had the gauntlets,

                     

Simplicity Renaissance 8735

  and Period Impressions basic shirt pattern.

    I used the one on the right minus the trimmings.  I had the hardest time setting the sleeves with the choice of material I used though. I do believe it was a chiffon of sorts, but it is sooooo soft I had to buy it! I chose to use a different material for the sleeves since I used gauntlets to go over over a lighter material(which is perfect for Tennessee summer heat).

   Alrighty, enough of my ramblings, here is the dress in all her glory:

                                              

My Grandma's old buttons

I had a blast making this and I can't wait to wear it for the Girls School this summer! Now I just need to make my ball gown, corset cover, dance slippers, new under garments, get a new corset, bonnet, and set of boots... No biggie. 

Yours truly,

Shayla P.