The 1995 version of Sense and Sensibility is my absolute favorite of all the adaptations. The film was directed by Ang Lee and Emma Thompson (Elinor Dashwood) wrote the screenplay. The costumes were designed by the talented Jenny Beaven and John Bright who truly did their historical research. I covered their historical inspiration in this post.
The costume cutter and maker of the iconic gown was the uber talented Clare Ramsell. Take a moment to go visit her account. If you’re like me you’ll be giddy with all the amazing projects she has worked on.
The Pattern
As with most of my creations this dress was made with materials found at estate sales. Given that I had just enough blue silk to make the gown I wanted to ensure that there was little room for error so I made a wearable mockup. I borrowed my friend Michele’s Laughing Moon pattern #126. It went together fairly smoothly.
My wearable mockup will be worn to a historical weekend November 5th and 6th hosted by Eide and Tim Guerinot. There is going to be a grand feast and ball! I will be teaching a class on growing a Georgian era cutting garden. So many wonderful instructors with amazing classes are planned for the event! It will be held at the gorgeous Newman’s Castle in Bellville, Texas. Tickets and class reservations can be made HERE.
Since it may be cold in the castle I opted to add long sleeves to my mockup. Both the sleeve and the hem have an added ruffle. FANCY!
I modified the free apron pattern from Tiffany of Stitchin’ Addiction to have a button back instead of ties.
Tiffany and I will be selling Regency fashions at the November event. If you need something sooner please visit her site.
Both the buttons on my bib front gown and the apron have an fun flower stitch holding them on.
Marianne’s Ball Gown From Sense and Sensibility
Once I felt confident in sewing the design I cut into my silk fabric.
The only pattern modification I made is to the side ties which I shared in today’s video.
The neckline is accented with antique lace. The vintage gloves belonged to my mother Karen. The antique necklace was also found at an estate sale. Wig can be found HERE. The reticule was a quick one hour project made from silk. It makes for a great bag and I will do a tutorial if there is interest.
The next two photos were taken at Costume College by Mark Edwards.
Of course I can never resist a few shenanigans.
Tiffany and I battled it out on who would make the morning coffee run.
In case you missed it I am giving away a white Regency era day cap. You can enter HERE.
A winner will be selected on September 1, 2022.
Today’s Video
A step by step tutorial of how I made both of the dresses, as well as other images, can be found in today’s video.
I’ll see you on Sunday!
Laura
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There is a a post with a corresponding video of Mrs. Dashwood’s Day Cap. .
Such a beautiful dress! I am always amazed at your talents! The venue for the classes is fabulous and you know we all expect pictures.
Laura, I love your creations and yes, I would like to see a pattern for the bag. It looks like something that I made for my high school prom in the 50s.
Oh my!!! I had no idea about Newman’s Castle here in Texas! What a charming and interesting place for you to give a workshop!!! I am looking forward to seeing many pictures from this event. And don’t forget to go and get a tasty treat from their bakery as well. Have a wonderful time!!!
Laura, this dress (and you in it) are Spectacular! And I think your beautiful necklace is just the right touch to complement the dress – stunning!
I love your sense of humor – shenanigans are always fun! ~ carol
Very pretty, Laura. I’m not surprised, though! Your work is always lovely!
Very pretty!
This was my favorite film adaptation as well! You did an amazing job of Marianne’s ballgown, but I’m not at all surprised because you’re just so brilliantly talented!