This bodice is a Dress Bodice, or formal style, worn in 1861. It has two points in front, and three points in the back. The center front is cut on the straight of grain, for use with plaids and stripes. Has dropped shoulder, and narrow T-back styling. The sleeve is wide at the elbow, tapered to the wrist, and lightly gathered at the top. This style of pointed bodice was very popular until 1866, with a narrow sleeve the only changes being made. Instructions are given for finishing with a full lining, as well as with piped facings.

The bodice is drafted based on a tailoring method actually used in the 1860's. Each size is hand drawn, not scaled. All of the bodice seams are true to the era, and it is designed to fit snugly over a corset, and hoop.