1740 - 1780 Robe a la Francaise Pattern

This pattern includes 14 pages of instructions with historical tips, and 7 pattern sheets. It is printed on bond paper, and enclosed in a white paper envelope.

All sizes Petite – X-large are included.

No. 1700-7
Watteau back gown.
Open or closed skirt.
Three options of bodice closures.
English (sofa) or French (soft pleats) styles.
Adjustable to different panniers.
Decoration and variation ideas included.
$25.00

At the time, this flowing, pleated back style of dress was called “robe à la Française” or a sack dress. Later it became known as a Watteau gown, after the painter who often portrayed his female subjects wearing it.

I give instructions for both the open and closed skirts, in the English or French styles. The skirt width is determined by the shelf width of the hooped petticoat it is to be worn over. It is set up for a 12” panniers shelf, which is easily changed. A period width adjusting technique is included.

Historical Sewing Patterns

The Mantua-Maker