Setbacks

I’m glad that I set the project aside to think about overnight before cutting.  Upon further consideration I discovered that I would be unable to do attached sleeves if I laced it on the sides as I originally intended which means that it wouldn’t make the best fighting garb as I would require someone else’s help to dress.  While this issue is not insurmountable it was too much to tackle in my sewing window which grew smaller by the minute.  Additionally, I was unable to find boning for the bodice which would have required the making of a corset which was once piece of garb I was sure I didn’t have the time to complete before war. 

Upon further discussion with my husband we have decided that I will reserve this dress concept until I can make it to my satisfaction and will use it for dress functions instead of fencing.  This fabric and fashion should make a good match for the silk Venetians and Doublet that I’ll be making for my husband for such occasions.

I opted to make a new fencing skirt instead which I completed in plenty of time to look good on the field. I’m the fencer on the right with the yellow skirt.  The skirt is made from a yellow brocade that I’ve had on hand for some time.  I trimmed the bottom in black velvet ribbon which gave the skirt more body.  Although the skirt only clears the ground by an inch or so I had much success fencing in it and only step on it occasionally as I walk.