SORCHA WHALLEY

During second year at WAAPA, I studied a year long class focusing on period accurate corsetry and undergarments as well as the outer garments to match. I designed the corset, crinoline and petticoat to go underneath the bodice and skirt that I also designed. As shown in the photos, I created a toile that I then completed all alterations to and continued to make it out of corset coutil fabric. I used a basic cotton for the crinoline with metal hoops inside to give it the structure it needs and I used the same cotton fabric for the petticoat and added 2 ruffles to kick out the back some more. I chose a hunter green satin for my outer garments as I wanted to replicate a dress off North and South, a TV series set in 1855. I added embroidery to the front pleated panels as well as to the back, this emphasized my talent and love for embroidery whilst also staying within the 1860 time period.