In January 2018, I was looking through images of “Boho” style skirts and dresses (whilst dreaming of summer) and the thought crossed my mind that an 1860s skirt paired with a 1960s cropped top, brought together with a corset (which would be on display over the mid-section) might be a fun ensemble!
It took nearly two years for the project to come together, but here’s what happened.
Patterns
I used my original ©1969 McCalls 9704 pattern for the top, combining the designs with ties at the base, and without a collar.
For the corset, I used Butterick’s B4254, option D
The skirt was a bit of a free-styled construction.
I formed a knee-length skirt, and then ruffled copious yards of fabrics to make the layers.
After those layers were completed, I cut lace to go over top of the exposed /un-ruffled portion.
Materials
- The white base of the skirt was from a white bedsheet.
- The brown cropped top and brown portion of the skirt were also from a bedsheet.
- The patterned fabric on the skirt was from a hospital gown, as was the bias tape edging around the corset.
- The solid yellow for the corset was also from a hospital gown.
- The lace on the skirt was from a ripped curtain.
- The buttons were from my stash, and based on their yellowed appearance and irregular size, could be quite old – but I have no idea exactly how old.
The corset was stiffened with zip ties, which were new.
The busk was purchased new a number of years ago.
Progress Photos – click for captions
Final Photos
