In the past several years, it seem that there has been a resurgence of interest in the fashions of the past. One of the more popular has been the “Titanic” look. Why is this era such a favorite? Maybe because the styles are elegant and feminine, without being overly frilly and elaborate. Perhaps it’s because the clean lines of the early ‘teens are easily adapted to a more modern, updated look. The straight, ankle-length skirts are elegant and historical without being overly conspicuous or cumbersome. The clothing of the ‘teens is also one of the few historical styles you can wear without a large investment in period undergarments - corsets, hoopskirts, multiple petticoats, etc.

Though the bodice is fully lined, this pattern is quite simple and easy. Even a learning seamstress shouldn’t have much trouble with it. With a very little bit of help, my eleven-year-old sister made herself a dress from this pattern. Some of the things that makes this pattern go together quickly are that there aren’t set-in sleeves to gather and fit into the armhole, there aren’t any gathers in the waist, and the dress simply slips over your head, without putting in a zipper or buttonholes.

This pattern is very versatile; there are many possible variations. Some easy changes might include altering sleeve length (which is very simple since the sleeve pattern extends straight out), or changing the number, length and hemline of the overskirts. The belt pattern included is very basic, but you can easily get different looks by making it wider or narrower. You could also lengthen it and tie it in the back with long streamers flowing down the skirt, or try it to the side with a bunch of flowers, or in the front with a small bow or fancy buckle.

The design of this dress also has possibilities for incorporating a nursing opening. Make sure the belt can be easily released on one side to free the front, and cut the overskirt wide enough or short enough that it can be easily lifted up to get to a nursing slit in the underskirt - which is also the bottom half of the bodice. I have not personally tried this, but I think it would work. This way nursing mothers can also enjoy wearing historically inspired designs.

The many layers of this dress allow you to choose many creative color combinations. Make it all of one color for a simpler look, or shades of the same color for a watercolor effect. Or choose a contrasting color scheme, mixing colors and patterns, florals and solids. The inset on view 2 can be as simple as a lace overlay on your main fabric, or a bold contrast to showcase a special necklace.

This dress is very comfortable, The sleeves don’t bind - you have free arm movement, and the skirt is also sufficiently roomy for walking, without stressing the seams at all. You can personalize the easy-fitting waist to your exact measurements, and its position a few inches above the natural waistline is flattering to many figure types.

I think the elements of this design - ease of construction, the many creative variations, wearability - unite to make a pattern that is very marketable to the people today who love wearing clothing that has a hint of history about it.