Pattern Review: Simplicity 4551

I'm normally reluctant towards mainstream commercial patterns for my historical projects, but a few pass muster.  I enjoy attending the Dickens On The Strand festival in Galveston most years and I made this dress to wear in 2010.   The print is a little busy for my taste, but I suppose that would hide dirt and stains well.  It was cheap.

The pattern was well-written, though the sleeves didn't seem to fit in quite as marked, and they were much fuller than the pattern seemed to indicate.  Next time I would probably reinforce the waistband more - that's a lot of skirt hanging from it.

But this pattern has a lot of things going right for it for general purposes.  The bodice shape is appropriate (no blasted princess seams), and the piped edges and gauged waist (not gathered) create an authentic look.  Probably a great option for a docent, Victorian faire or someone newly interested in sewing historic costumes.