White/Ivory 18th Century Gown Inspiraton

I just received 10 yards of delicious ivory silk taffeta, and I’m just *itching* to make something (or a lot of somethings) out of it.  Of course I’m thinking along 18th century lines – I need a petticoat and stays for my wedding gown, and Mr. C needs a waistcoat for his Regency stuff, but I’m betting I can also get an 18th century robe out of the remainder.  …but what style?

Here’s a look at ivory/white/cream gowns from the 18th c.:

DarwinCountry.org – Wedding Dress of Cream Silk, 1785
Mrs. Edmund Morton Pleydell, by Thomas Gainsborough, c. 1765 Museum of Fine Arts, Boston – I don’t think I have enough for a Francaise, but I love the blue accent with the ivory
George Romney – Jane Maxwell, Duchess of Gordon, c 1749 – 1812.
Miss Mary Finch-Hatton, 1788. From The Frick Collection, accession number 1898.1.104. – similar to a pattern in Janet Arnold’s book
Henrietta, Countess of Warwick, and Her Children, 1787-1789. From the Frick Collection, accession number 1908.1.107.

Joshua Sir Reynolds – Lady Sunderland, 1786

Portrait Of Louise Marie Josephine De Savoie, Comtesse De Provence, by Joseph Boze 
The Met – Robe a la Francaise 1770
The Music Party by Loius Rolland Trinquesse, 1774
Kyoto Costume Institute – 1790 – I have always adored this gown.  It may have to be this one.

There are, of course, OODLES of ivory and white gowns from the 18th century, in so many different styles and even materials.  These are just a few I particularly liked.

Quite nicely, this itch falls in line with the Historical Sew Fortnightly’s “White” Challenge, due in July (https://www.facebook.com/events/533681890003723/).  I don’t think I’ll be done with the whole thing by then, but we’ll see 🙂

12 Comments

  • bauhausfrau

    April 25, 2013 at 12:46 AM

    How exciting! Will this be your wedding gown or just another lovely 18th C frock?

    I'm partial to the Romney and the Henrietta Countess of Warwick ones myself.

    Reply
  • Gabriela

    April 25, 2013 at 11:13 AM

    Ah, all these dress are wonderful, I love white and ivory color!
    But the best gown for me is francaise with the blue accent! 🙂

    Reply
    • Lauren Stowell

      April 26, 2013 at 5:10 AM

      I adore that one… I adore them all! I don't think I'll have enough for the francaise, but perhaps blue accents can be had 🙂

      Reply
  • vintagevisions27

    April 25, 2013 at 12:33 PM

    Wow, did I miss the wedding announcement?! I used the painting "The Music Party" by Loius Rolland Trinquesse for inspiration for my 18th century ivory gown. (still need to add the blue striped bows) But in my case it was just a pretty dress and not for a wedding. I'm getting married next fall and will most likely wear a vintage dress.
    -Emily

    Reply
    • Lauren Stowell

      April 26, 2013 at 5:11 AM

      Oh, I have not officially announced it yet. Perhaps I'd better. I adore The Music Party too! This ivory gown ironically isn't for my own wedding, just my own amusement, I guess.

      Reply
  • Samantha

    April 26, 2013 at 2:34 AM

    i love my white 18th c gown. it's so fun to dress it up with different accessories and completely change the look.

    Reply
    • Lauren Stowell

      April 26, 2013 at 5:15 AM

      Yes, I like that idea too! Differen belt, ribbons, petticoat, hat, etc., totally different ensemble. Yay versatility!

      Reply

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