Simple yet exquisite, Cinderella's dress

   What I like about historical sewing and fashion is the quality of the cut and technologies that still inspire today ... A simple servant's clothing looks smart and smashing today. What makes these images so astonishing? ...
   This blue gown is my favourite Cinderella's garment in the 2014 screen version of the tale.

   Film costume designers usually get their ideas for fantasy and fairytale in the history of fashion...

   Let's have a closer look at Cinderella's outfit, how it is made. 

   Exquisite indeed!

   Beneath the dress Lily James is wearing a silhoette-forming corset (this one was cofortable, as she admits, whereas in the ball gown corset she could hardly breathe).

   Front view.

The bodice front has tiny pleats that narrow down to the waistline. From under the corset a chemise shows. This is nice. Also it's a good trick to hide a low neck.

   Back view.

   The bodice and the skirt are separate pieces, both have closures at the back. There are tiny gathers at the top of the sleeve. The position of the side line seam is closer to the back. On the sleeve again: the sleeve is narrow, the cap is probably moved a bit more to the back, the lower armhole (armcye) seam line is very high --under the armpit, and yet the wearer is lifting up her arm quite freely and easily.

  .... So, that's the way learning from historical fashion can help today -- revealing the secrets of a comfortable garment.