By the 1770s the sack-back gown was second only to court dress in its formality. This style of gown had fabric at the back arranged in box pleats which fell loose from the shoulder. In front, the gown was open, showing off a decorative stomacher and petticoat. It would have been worn with a wide square hoop or panniers under the petticoat. Scalloped ruffles often trimmed elbow-length sleeves.
There is much more information about this ensemble at CSB Sews Doll Clothes on Etsy - Formal Dress for Felicity or Elizabeth.
I did promise a Victorian Ensemble, but the one I created sold before it appeared in the Stitching Post. But here it is along with a few other new items (mostly sold) at CSB Sews Doll Clothes on Etsy.
Girly Girl - Still Available
Victorian Ensemble for Samantha
Retro School Dress for Kit or Ruthie
See ya soon!!
Carolyn