It is finally complete! Last November, I had cut out most of the pattern pieces, and last Friday I finally picked up sewing the damned thing! I used Butterick 4827. I have no idea if the sleeves were supposed to turn out slightly puckered at the shoulder. I didn't bother looking at the directions, but the sleeve was a little too big at the shoulder so I made it pucker. I've sewn princess-cut gowns so many times that I don't need directions...at least I say I don't. I cut several corners with this pattern, I did not put in the yoke or the grommets with lacing in the back. The fabric is a stretch velvet, so there is no need for that, I just pull it over my head! I also didn't finish the seams...but I really don't care. Surprisingly, this fabric was nice to me, and didn't curl and warp when I hemmed the bottom, and finished the collar.

The belt is my own design. It took maybe an hour. I bought this gorgeous black brocade a while back just for this gown. I cut the belt slightly curved so that it would fit nicely on my hips, and cut the same out of some brown cotton velveteen I had. I used velveteen so that it wouldn't slip off of my hips, and would stay put on the velvet. I cheated with the grommets and used a vinyl grommet tape >< Have to get rid of that stuff somehow.

For those of you interested in using this pattern...
1.) It runs big. I am normally a size 14, and this turned out looking like a bag on me. I took it in under the arms and all the way to my waist. It was taken in about 4 inches at the bust and 5 at the waist.
2.) The length ended up being perfect for my height. I am 5'6" (1.68 metres), and the length hides my feet, but I do not trip over the hem when I walk briskly (which is good for the Faire )
3.) The sleeves are just right, unhemmed. This depends on how you like your sleeves. If you like longish sleeves gathered at your wrists and overlaying your hand, I suggest adding an inch or two.
4.) The panels didn't come out even with each other at the hem. But all the important parts went together nicely. All it needs is a trim before you hem.