Bodice Advice

[Pam]

Hi Heather,

I've more or less decided to go with TV291 for the skirt for Christmas at Lanhydrock, but am still undecided about a bodice. I would like to create an evening outfit, but I'm not sure whether a lady of a certain age would have her arms and decolletage too much on display. I need to keep the overall effect within the Belle Epoque (the ball that we are recreating was held in 1893).
I'd be really grateful for some suggestions, pretty please xxx

Pam

[Heather]

I think you can wear anything you like. You can always wear a low cut evening dress, regardless of age. But if you want to cover up a bit more, you can do that, too. The sleeves for this era are quite large, so most of your arm is covered above the elbow to start. You can make the sleeves longer if you like.

I'd say to go with what makes you comfortable. You can start with a full high bodice, like TV493, and then cut the neckline and sleeves to suit your tastes.

[Pam]

Brilliant, thanks! I could really dress that bodice up - or let the fabric 'speak' for itself