The Allie In Detail

I am a collector of historic work dresses-
having long felt they were an overlooked part of women's history
This is a gown in my collection that I have chosen to create a pattern from.
I call it the Allie- because this gown reminds me of hot summer days and Tombstone....
The time period is 1876-1882
these images are copyrighted- please ask before using.

It was meant as a summer or work gown with its ¾ length sleeves, and unlined bodice.
It would have been easily washed, and the slight flounces and self bias trim would hold up well when laundered.
It was what would be known during the natural form period as an easy fitting basque,
or simply by leaving the dart out- a "half fitting sacque"
When it came to me- it had recieved a few modifications-
the biggest of which was the addition of modern eyelet lace at the collar,
and the waistband having been cut off and replaced with a drawstring casing
(the drawstring casing is a definate later modification by the thread type used- it burns poly)
This gown is stitched nearly completely by machine, using period "speed sewing techniques"


The Allie in all her glory


Back view showing the sideback seams extending to the shoulder seam-


Inside view of the sleeve ruffle- the hem is done by machine
The ruffle attached with the seam to the outside and covered by bias


The shadow of the single original dart- also gives a clue to the original chocolate brown color


the half fitting basque- with the dart pinned back in


Bias strips applied over the top of the ruffle base


"Bag" pocket hidden in seamline


Original machine sewn hem- showing where it has been cut away
to provide fabric to let out bodice at a later date.


slight gather at the elbow for ease of movement


A photo in my collection showing a very similar gown
- Lincoln Nebraska- appears to be servants

Buy the Pattern for the Allie



Dana in her "Allie"

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