I got a really good deal online on the bolt end of some beautiful printed cotton from Renaissance Fabrics.  I didn’t have enough for the full bustle era outfit of foundation skirt, overskirt, and bodice, so I simplified.  You might get the impression that I don’t like Truly Victorian, but that is completely wrong!  Many of my bustle era gowns were sewn before this company existed, but I will gladly tell you they have the best assortment of bustle era dress patterns around!

For this dress, I used the TV462 – 1883 Tail Bodice and TV290 – 1889 Draped Skirt.  Note: this skirt is EXTREMELY slimming – I was shocked when I tried it on and looked in the mirror!

I used the long tailed version of the bodice which acts like an overskirt.  It has the keyhole neckline (the pattern offers several different necklines) and is trimmed with cranberry grosgrain ribbon that is 4 inches wide.  The neckline and sleeves are also trimmed with antique cotton lace.