Valkyrie Underdress – Butterick 4827
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My concept for the Valkyrie outfit is that of an ethereal, not quite there creature. The under-dress is very simple, and I plan to dye it blue from the top down, so the ‘image’, as it were, will be in focus at the top and fade away into grey towards the hem.
I used Butterick 4827, view A, in a lightweight grey linen.
Apart from my usual grading between pattern sizes, I only made two major pattern modifications. The first was to raise the neckline, since this will be going under chainmail and metal gets hot. The second was to line the bodice instead of doing facings. For this I made patterns of just the top half of the main dress pieces and sewed them in as one would a facing. After turning it all the right way out I basted the two layers together at the armholes and inserted the sleeves as normal. I also lengthened the bodice by an inch, and shortened the skirt by two inches.
The pattern went together very well. I was slightly mystified by the lacing system on the back, but I followed the instructions and it seems like it will work. I have not yet added the grommets since I am going to dye the dress. I would usually cut off the train, but I left it this time since this is meant to portray an ethereal fantasy being, and trains add to that effect. If I get annoyed with it I can always cut it off later!
Read about dyeing the dress.
Pattern Number
Butterick 4827, View A
Description
A medieval fantasy style dress with optional underskirt.
Difficulty
Confident beginner – you’ve made a few things and even wear them! You know how to use interfacing, press a seam and clip a curve.
Fabric and Trim
Main: Lightweight grey linen
Lining: Lightweight grey linen
Instructions
The instructions are clear, and do work, even if it looks like they aren’t going to!
Alterations
Lengthened bodice, raised neckline, added two inches to the skirt length, lined bodice instead of doing facings.
Conclusions
This is a good basic medieval shape, though it should be noted that princess seams are not period accurate. The pattern is clear and easy to follow.
