1910 Dressy Afternoon or Informal Dinner Gown

Except for dresses worn by very elderly women, formal evening wear in the Edwardian and 1910's era always meant a décolletage (low, open neckline).  

However, there were occasions where a formal appearance was called for, but in a less formal setting.  This gown is in that category, appropriate as a visiting, reception, or dinner gown.  As an evening gown for dinner, in velvet (as I made the replica) or silk, despite the luxe of the textiles, its high collar would signify informal evening wear -- a gown appropriate for a fancy dinner at home, or with close friends.   As a visiting or afternoon gown, it would speak to the highest formality of day wear, whether in velvet or not.  

This replica was made from silk/rayon velvet in a deep forest green colour, over a full, boned foundation, with hand embroidered insets (plastrons), French cotton guipure lace, and silk satin bias trim.  This is a true "Gibson Girl" gown, with a semi-hobble skirt formed by the applied band below the knees.  The band can also be omitted, to create a typical trained skirt. 

The pattern for this afternoon gown is available in my Etsy shop.  This design is best suited to those with fairly advanced sewing skills, especially if the gown is made in velvet.  Click on this button to go to the Etsy listing: 

Sewing Pattern #1910-A-015 on Etsy

If you're planning to work with velvet and would like some tips and insights into handling this luxury textile, see my blog article here: 

Working With Velvet - Blog Article