] I always wondered who made the dresses that women wore in JA's times. The richer people would probably have had their clothes made for them. Would people like the Bennets or the Dashwoods have made their own dresses or have them made?

] I know I would love to be able to make an Empire style ballgown.

There are two fine pattern companies: Folkwear and Sense and Sensibility. To at least make a basic gown, only rudimentary sewing skills are needed. I am nearly finished constructing a dress of lavender silk from the Folkwear (www.folkwear.com)pattern for my dear sister. Sense and Sensibility (www.sensibility.com) has a pattern for a gown with a more modest neckline that I will use for my teenaged daughter. Hope this is of some assistance to you.

Best wishes,

Lady Rebecca