Dark Jade and Black Velvet Bustle Dress

dark jade and black velvet bustle dress

	Originally this bustle dress was started with the intention of being worn at a GBACG peacock bustle themed event on the re-opening of the conservatory in Golden Gate Park. Alas, the dress was not finished, but it was reconfigured for a masquerade ball at PEERS. Finally, this dark jade and black velvet bustle dress was altered and 1883 inspired trimmings added for an August Gaskell's Victorian dance. Items constructed for this costume:
	Bodice Dark jade with black velvet print polyester taffeta with gathered short sleeves, piping on top and bottom edges, back-laced through buttonholes, back peplum forms leaf-like tails. Embroidered offwhite polyester organza gathered along top edge, over shoulders, and up front. Black polyester/rayon velvet with white stitching false collar. Black polyester/rayon velvet trim on top. Purchased artificial flowers. Pattern base heavily altered McCall's M4744 with altered peplum from Simplicity 5457 and inspiration for trimmings from Victorian Fashions & Costumes from Harper's Bazaar: 1867-1898, Stella Blum (ed.), 1975, p. 154-155.
	Overskirt Black polyester/rayon velvet with white stitching pleated at top and attached by ribbons to underskirt, has three rows of drawstrings to attach as bustle layers on underskirt. Lined with black polyester. Pattern base Simplicity 5457 slimmed.
	Underskirt Dark jade with black velvet print polyester taffeta front gored underskirt has larger panel in the back that is gathered in back for more fullness and has hidden back pockets, ribbon drawstring on set waistband, back hook and eye closure. Pattern base Simplicity 5457.
	Apron Dark jade with black velvet print polyester taffeta apron with velvet trim and hook & eye back closure Pattern base Simplicity 5457.
	Choker Black velvet polyester/rayon choker.
	Bustle Pad Light canvas type cotton bustle pad filled with polyester, grossgrain ribbon waist/tie. Pattern base Simplicity 5457.
	Previous Incarnation Original base dress as worn to the PEERS event. Underskirt remains the same. Bustle was removed and changed. Bodice was cut lower in front and back was shortened and peplum/tails added.

Completed: August 2007