Date: Saturday, October 17, 2026

Time: 10:00 am – 4:00 pm
Location: Crescent Hill Presbyterian Church, 142 Crescent Avenue, Louisville, KY 40206

Becoming Jane: Blue Dress Workshop

The dress “Becoming Jane” was inspired by visiting Chawton House and speaking to the director, who is mentioned it would be lovely to have a dress like the one Cassandra painted Jane wearing. Back in the U.S., Makenzie asked several museum curators if they had something similar in their collection. She lucked out at the Fashion Archive & Museum collection from Shippensburg University as they had a dress in their collection that matched the one in Cassandra’s watercolor.

Now you too have the opportunity to step into Jane’s world and create her blue gown as depicted in the painting. Choose the fabric of your choice and tailor it to your measurements. The workshop focuses on fitting the bodice which is cut on the bias. If time allows you will move onto cutting out the fashion fabric and beginning dress construction. You work at your own pace. Mackenzie is available during the workshop as well as post workshop for any further help and questions you may have.

The price for the full day workshop will include fitting instructions, a pattern in your size, as well as lunch, beverages, snacks and time spent with your fellow Jane Austen enthusiasts.

Cost for full day program is $125.00 and pre-registration is required. Registrations open August 1, 2026.