KayFig 631, Ball Gown Bodice Basic Pattern, c. 1862-1863, size 08 to 18
Just as today, in the 1860’s not everyone attended formal events regularly; actually, depending on the socio-economic background, many people never attended any balls, dinner parties or similar events. But if we portray a fashionable person of upper or upper middle class or one aspiring to such, we will need to know, what we should wear.
The rule of thumb is: The more formal the event, the more skin is shown. Enclosed is a basic bodice from which you can create a variety of ball gown bodices. We leave the trim decisions up to you. Look through period magazines such as Godey’s, Peterson’s, or other period fashion publications for trim inspirations or choose sleeve and other trim variations from the KayFig Line as well.
Fig Leaf Patterns® and Originals by Kay have joined together to create a line of patterns for the living history and reenactor market. These patterns are designed to fit the modern figure while creating the period look and proportions. These patterns are based on extant garments and emphasize commonalities rather than idiosyncrasies of one specific garment. Instead of one base size which is then mathematically graded for the other sizes, each size has its own block derived from actual people. This approach to creating a pattern is similar in the manner of how patterns were developed in the 19th century.
The sewing instructions are succinct and take into account modern machinery while maintaining basic period construction.
