This is a DIGITAL sewing pattern for a day dress from 1840-45.

This dress is based on extant day dresses and daguerreotypes from 1840 to 1845.

The dress features some typical details of the era with two different neckline options.
The fashion fabric of the bodice is mounted on a tight-fitting lining bodice from a polished cotton fabric and closes at the center back with hooks and eyes. The bottom edge of the bodice, the neckline, and armholes are piped with the same fabric.
The skirt is made from several panels of fabric, cartridge pleated and attached to the bodice (View A), or knife pleated and mounted to a narrow waistband (View B).
The one-piece sleeve is cut on the bias and has an optional over-sleeve with a scalloped edge, trimmed with narrow cotton lace.
I recommend searching the internet for extant dresses and daguerreotypes from the era for inspiration.


This dress should be worn with a matching corset and petticoat.

Please scroll down for yardage and pattern information.


→→WHAT YOU RECEIVE←←

This is a DIGITAL pattern (PDF), you can download both size ranges and languages after payment has been confirmed.
The pattern comes with detailed and illustrated sewing instructions in English and German. It is a multi-size sewing pattern, you can choose between Sizes US 8-18 (EU 34-44) and Sizes US 20-30 (EU 46-56). A seam allowance of 5/8" (1,5cm) is included in my patterns.
The pattern is ready to be printed out on DIN A4 or US Letter. Format DIN A0 to be printed at a plotter / copy-shop comes with a second email at no additional costs.

→→HOW MANY PATTERN PAGES TO PRINT←←

The sewing pattern itself consists of:
Size US 8-18 (EU 34-44): 27 pages A4/US letter or 1 1/2 A0
Size US 20-30 (EU 46-56): 36 pages A4/US letter or 1 A0

→→PATTERN INFORMATION←←

Recommended fabric:
Dress: light to midweight cotton fabrics like lawn, muslin or calico
Lining : midweight (polished) cotton fabric

Fabric required:

US 8-18 (EU 34-44):
View A and B:
Dress: 5 yds. (4.5m) with a width of 51“ (130 cm)
Lining: 1.5 yds. (1.3 m) with a width of 51“ (130 cm)
Piping cord Ø 1/16“ (1-2 mm): 4.5 yds. (4 m)
Narrow cotton lace - sleeves: 2yds. (2m)
hooks and eyes
Cotton lace or a lace collar for the neckline

US 20-30 (EU 46-56):
Dress A or B: 6.3 yds. (5.7m) with a width of 51“ (130 cm)
Lining A: 1.1 yds. (1m) with a width of 51„ (130cm)
Lining B: 2 yds. (1.7 m) with a width of 51“ (130 cm)
Piping cord Ø 1/16“ (1-2 mm): 5.5 yds. (5 m)
Narrow cotton lace - sleeves: 2yds. (2m)
hooks and eyes
Cotton lace or a lace collar for the neckline