This gown is modeled after the style of 1550s Florence; I used the bodice guarding layout found on Eleonora di Toledo’s burial gown, as well as a train and sleeves in a Florentine style.

This dress is made of 4 yards of a 45” wide peach colored dupioni silk, 5 yards of white rayon trim, and ½ a yard of white cotton shirting fabric with a herringbone weave and a very soft hand.

 

I did not strictly adhere to the construction of a Florentine gown in the sense that the partlet, sleeves and gown are all one piece. I made this choice due to the fact that my daughter is 6 years old, fiddly, and doesn’t manage to keep herself in one piece for more then 10 minutes if any pinning or ties are involved. In a traditional gown there would be detachable sleeves, and as such I have given her some faux puffs on top to simulate a chemise puffing up. I used a modern quilting technique called cathedral windows on her upper sleeve paining mostly because I wanted to try the technique rather then having any documentable reason for doing so. I might add some pearls and spangles to this dress before 12th night if I get the time, but for right now I am calling it done.

 

The back of this dress has side back seams with side back spiral lacing, the turquoise cord will be replaced, I just have to find where I put the white silk ribbon I bought for it………

I will probably make her an underskirt to go with this dress, as I think she could use the body to stand out her skirt a little better.