1890s Ladies Columbia Cape - Late Victorian - Belle Epoque - Reproduction (ca. 1894) Sewing Pattern #E7009 - 36 Inch Bust - Capelet

Ladies' Columbia Cape — 1894 Reproduction Sewing Pattern

This reproduction sewing pattern is sized to fit a 36-inch bust.

The Ladies' Columbia Cape is a beautifully dramatic, eight-gored short cape with a high neckline. It can be made plain or adorned with soutache, lace, or embroidery, and finished with or without a lining. The cape is very full—think of it as a circle skirt for your shoulders!

Most likely named in honor of the World’s Columbian Exposition (Chicago World’s Fair, 1893–1894), this elegant garment reflects the artistry and innovation inspired by that influential cultural event, which left a lasting impact on fashion and the arts.

Suggested Fabrics

• Spotted Moiré
• Light Woolens
• Silk Plaids
• Linen
• Silk Taffeta
• Lined Lace
• Brocade

Optional Notions:

• Lining fabric
• Gimp trim
• Insertion lace
• Hook & eye or frog-style closure

The red cape shown in Photo #2 is a work in progress.

Yardage Requirements (Size: 36" Bust)

• 22" wide fabric: 4 ¾ yards
• 44" wide fabric: 2 ⅜ yards
• 54" wide fabric: 2 ¼ yards

This pattern has been lovingly re-digitized into its current format.

⚠️ Copyright Notice:
All content is protected under the copyright of www.BeespokeVintagePatterns.com, ©2020. No portion of this pattern may be photocopied or reproduced by any means without written consent.

IMPORTANT NOTE

The original source material from which this pattern is replicated contains far less instruction than those from the 1920s or 1930s. These early publications assumed the home seamstress had a solid understanding of garment construction and didn’t require detailed step-by-step directions.

As a result, there may be:

• No instructions for trims, linings, or facings
• Minimal or non-existent sewing guidance
• Incomplete illustrations

Because of this, prior sewing experience is highly recommended.

This pattern is reproduced exactly from the original source, with no alterations to ensure full historical accuracy.

Be aware that:

• These patterns run small by today’s standards
• They were drafted assuming the use of foundation garments or corsets
• It is essential to create a fitting mock-up (toile) from muslin or other test fabric before cutting your final fabric

PLEASE KEEP IN MIND

This is an exact reproduction of the original vintage pattern and may retain any errors or miscalculations from the original formatting. While I have personally sewn some of these patterns, I have not tested every single one, and cannot guarantee a perfect fit.

As always, make a mock-up in test fabric to ensure the best fit and finish before beginning with your fashion fabric.

NOT YOUR SIZE?

No problem! Here are some fantastic resources to help you resize your pattern:

• Grading Your Own Patterns on Patreon
• Resizing Tips from Sensibility.com

CAN YOU MAKE THIS FOR ME?

Absolutely! I’d love to bring this beautiful piece to life in your size and preferred fabric. Just send me a custom order request, and we’ll sort out the details together.

ARE YOU ON SOCIAL MEDIA?

Yes! I would be thrilled to see what you make with this pattern. Please tag me in your photos:

• Instagram: @BeespokeVintage & @BeespokeVintagePatterns
• Facebook: @BeespokeVintage & @BeespokeVintagePatterns