Edwardian Riding Skirt Pattern
from
The Cutter's Practical Guide
Circa 1904-05.
"Notwithstanding the impression one may get from a first glance at the diagram which accompanies this article, the actual work of putting together is, compared with most skirts, simplicity itself. It will be noticed, by reference to the diagram, that the shape partakes very much of the trouser pattern, and anyone with the least knowledge of trouser making will find very little difficulty in mastering the details necessary to its make-up...First, then, an inlay will be left on from 50 to 51, and from there on to 14; this will take a rather uneven run, especially from 51 to 14, but that round and curve must be strictly adhered to, or when the train is finished it will not fall with a level appearance, as we see it in the center diagram. This inlay, when turned up, will require a great deal of shrinking into shape with a hot iron and damp rag, and this, in fact, forms one of the most difficult operations one has to perform in putting this garment together...C will be one one straight piece of elastic placed nearer the front edge at the top than at its lower end, and the curved appearance is given by the fact that it is fastened on very loosely, fully 1 1/2 or 2 inches being allowed for the right foot to freely enter...The next thing is to cut the lining; this must be cut to fit exactly the front from dotted line behind 50 up to I around cut at E, across 4 to 30..A word or two as to A. This is a wide elastic tab and upon it two buttons are fastened to meet the two holes at B. In order to locate the position of this tab, turn the train inside out, and then double back the flap B from E. across to 28 and 1-34, which will now be sewing together, and be all one point. The two holes at B will now lie on the front of train between the edge of front lining and the seats 13; the two buttons will be placed on the lower edge of the elastic tab, so that the flap B, having been brought round the lady's leg just above the bend of knee, will button cleanly to it. This tab must be securely fastened to the front, and when the rider is in action, the elastic expands, and gives free play to her movements."
(c) Copyright 2000.
04/22/2006