Antique Sewing Pattern for Lovely 1904 Edwardian Chemise~Dual Sz-MED/LARGE

An Antique Lingerie Treasure from The Fashion Archaeologist

Here is a sewing pattern in our exclusive 'Edwardian Rose' line for that indispensible part of Edwardian lingerie – the chemise.  This design (our Pattern #1904-A-001) was developed from a 1904 French antique design, but we've drafted it in dual sizing - Medium and Large. Please note: This listing is for the sewing pattern only, not the finished garment. The chemise is in the classic, loose A-line style of the era, adjusted for individual fit by means of ribbon ties at the front and shoulders.  The upper front is embellished with tiny tucks, lace insertion and lace beading and the lower hem has an optional flounce or finishing edge of lace.  The 1904 garment called for lightweight cotton batiste (the fabric of choice for all Edwardian lingerie), but any light and flowing natural fabric could be used, such as handkerchief linen, china silk or even satin.  The chemise was  worn as the first undergarment (beneath the corset) in an Edwardian ensemble, and is still necessary if you are wearing an authentic replica or antique corset.  As a modern garment it would make a lovely summer nightgown.    For an antique-style wedding, made up in an exquisite sheer Swiss batiste fabric and with some creative embellishment, this chemise could be worthy of the finest Edwardian trousseau.  See the photos for examples of the chemise made from this pattern showing the sort of embellishment that can be added.   Sewing Skill Level:   This design is quite versatile, and can be made rather plain, or very fancy with added lace insertion or other decoration as much as desired, so the level of difficulty really depends on the amount of embellishment involved.   As a basic period garment, this pattern would be a great choice for someone with beginner's sewing skills who would like to try their hand at heirloom sewing, or an easy project for anyone with ordinary sewing experience.      Size:   This pattern is drafted as a dual size pattern, for a ladies’ modern medium and large size.  Because the waist and hips are very loose-fitting and the neckline is drawn up with ribbon ties, it will easily fit a range of sizes (see below).  If you have basic alteration skills, it can be altered up or down a further one or two sizes, or shortened (or lengthened) to almost any length for the best drape and fit.  Below are the suggested best size ranges for this pattern:     For Medium size:          Bust:      86-94 cm (34-37 inches)        Waist:    66-79 cm (26-31 inches)        Hips:      91-102 cm (36-40 inches)    For Large size:       Bust:      97-107 cm (38-42 inches)       Waist:    81-91 cm (32-37 inches)       Hips:      104-117 cm (41-48 inches)   Length for both sizes measured from centre back nape of neck:  About 109cm (43 inches), but the length can easily be altered.    Please be aware that seam allowances are not included on this pattern, to permit custom fitting between the two marked sizes.  However, the seams are very simple and straightforward, so adding the allowances is very easy. 

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Our 'Edwardian Rose' Patterns:   Like all our patterns, this one is professionally printed on sturdy 20lb paper.  It includes detailed cutting and sewing instructions in English, with measurements in inches and centimetres, a suggested fabric and notions list, as well as a copy of the antique fashion sketch.  The pattern comes in a reusable plastic envelope that we know sewists will appreciate!    We take these patterns from the "bare bones" original antique patterns (usually from French sources), re-draw, correct, and clarify the outlines, assemble the pattern piece(s) onto one sheet, add helpful markings and notations, then write step-by-step English instructions.  If you have ever tried to sew from an original antique pattern, you'll know they can be a challenge at best and mystifying at worst, with few (if any) sewing instructions.  The reason for this was that it was assumed these patterns would be made up by dressmakers experienced in the pattern drafting and construction techniques of the era.  We've taken the hard work out of interpreting these fashions to make them accessible for modern sewing.  The only thing that is not included is a pattern layout sketch.  This is because fabric widths can vary considerably, giving many possible layouts for one pattern.  These would be very time-consuming to anticipate and draw out, and would unduly increase the cost of developing our patterns.   We therefore suggest that you do a test layout based on the width of your chosen fabric.  Otherwise, all the information you will need to complete the garment is included.
 

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If you love heirloom sewing (or want an introduction to heirloom sewing) and would like to try making an historically accurate piece of Edwardian lingerie, this pattern is ideal!  If you are a costume maker, this pattern would be excellent for theatrical or historical exhibit use.  It would also make a thoughtful and unique gift for an heirloom sewing enthusiast.    

An authentic piece of Edwardian lingerie fashion to sew ~   See our eBay store for other beautiful antique patterns and more!  

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To avoid disappointment and the cost of return shipping, please read the item description carefully, and ask any questions before buying - we're always happy to reply!   We strive to fully and carefully describe our items and to describe colours as accurately as possible, but computer monitors can vary in the way colour is displayed.  If a specific colour of a listed garment is important to you, please email us - we have a method for matching colour to a standard, but it may take a day or two to confirm.

COPYRIGHT REMINDER:  All our patterns, including written instructions, illustrations and photographs, as well as the content of our listings, are copyright.  Our patterns are intended for personal use only, and are not to be copied by any means, or used for commercial garment manufacturing without our express prior written consent.  

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