Peggy Elizabeth Lushine

This elegant Elizabethan noble gown is inspired by a portrait of Mary Queen of Scots, which is the theme for a costume contest currently being held at the Margo's Patterns yahoo group. I really love the clean lines that emphasize Peggy's wonderful tailoring, and the details that you see in the trim and chemise are so lovely. You can read more about the gown below the picture, and if you are a member of Margo's group or the ElizabethanClothing group, you can check out more gorgeous pictures in Peggy's photo folder. And finally, you can email Peggy at pege(at)mn(dot)rr(dot)com.

The gown is navy cotton decorator damask. The forepart, caul, and the parts of the chemise that are visible are made of beautiful beaded silk that was only $10 a yard after discounts and coupons! I'm also able to wear it with a gold forepart and sleeves for flexibility. Since I minored in theatre I tend to do some things more for practicality and less for historical accuracy; hidden snaps and using elastic for button loops are 2 of my favorites. The bodice closes in the front with heavy-duty upholstery hooks, the shape was adapted from Margo Anderson's Lady's pattern. My sleeves close at the wrist with snaps and are made using Margo's Gentleman's pattern. The skirt is attached to the bodice and since I hate wearing a bum roll, I padded the pleats ala Melissa Heischberg aka Sempstress. Underneath it all I'm wearing a cable tie boned corset built using Drea Leed's corset generator and a purchased farthingale and linen petticoat which was an estate sale find.