The Pet-en-l’air jacket has a fitted front torso without a front waist seam, and a pleated sack back that extends from neckline to hem. The fit of the bodice is controlled by the lining; it has an under stomacher that laces closed in the front, with ties to adjust the back. Pattern is for pet-en-l’air, three sleeve flounces and stomacher only. Instructions are included for extending the pet-en-lair into the gown, or robe á la Francaise. Also included are diagrams and instructions for constructing a shaped petticoat which will hang evenly over pocket hoops. Available in sizes 6-8 to 20-24.
Pet-en-l'air
The robe á la Francaise was one of the most flattering gowns ever worn by ladies in the 18th century. Fitted closely to the torso in the front, the back of the gown hung in long graceful pleats from the shoulder to the hemline. This style was popular from the 1750's through the 1770's. In its shortened jacket form it was usually called a pet-en-l’air.
This pattern is for the pet-en-l’air, sleeve flounces and stomacher only. DIrections are provided for extending the pet-en-l’air into a gown. In addition, instructions and cutting layout are included for making a petticoat which will hang gracefully over pocket hoops.
This original pattern is based on extant examples of sack gowns and pets-en-l'air, as shown in Patterns of Fashion 1 by Janet Arnold, and in the collection of The Metropolitan Museum of Art, robe á la francaise c. 1755-1770, and gold satin caraco (pet-en-l’air) and petticoat, c. 1775.
This pattern is designed to be worn over stays and will not fit properly without them.