Is it possible to make a bustle dress in two days?

[bethzylla]

I've had an awful time getting motivated to sew anything lately.  That really sucks, since I was so excited about having a new bustle dress for Candlelight this Saturday.  I've got all my fabric and trims layed out, the patterns and inspiration source material handy, and a felt hat blank and coating wool for some snazzy winter outerwear.  I've even deconstructed a vintage fur shrug for use as a muff.

So what's the hangup?  I have no idea.  But I'm starting to suspect that the stress of trying to bang this thing out in two days would overshadow my enjoyment of the event.

My backup plan is to wear my black half-mourning gown and make a mantle or wrap to go over the top.  I've got some black wool/wool blend (estate sale find) that might work.  I'd certainly be warm!  It's very heavy and blanket-like.  I'm wondering if I could make a small bustle pad and fake that skirt into looking early bustle era?  Might be worth a shot.  I'll need to make a reticule (or check local thrift stores for a framed purse) so I can hide my cash, keys, and phone/camera.  That's still a fair amount to do in the next couple days, but it's far more reasonable than trying to rush my original plan.

Comments

[jenthompson.livejournal.com]

That definitely sounds like a more do-able plan! I decided to cut myself a break and just wear an old dress too, although I did have a moment of insanity last weekend when I thought about making a whole new dress. Don't kill yourself - it's not worth it! Maybe you can save the new dress for the tea party.

[kaesha-nikovana.livejournal.com]

You are so right - it's not worth the stress! I spent a couple hours today scaling up a pattern from Bustle Fashions. It said to use the scale corresponding with the bust measure and I trusted it... Holy crap, it's gigantic! Way too tall, and also too wide. I'm not even sure it's worth trying to scale it down now. Maybe I'll make a capelet and call it done. Back to Pinterest for inspiration!