This pattern allows you to create a variety of bodices -
from very simple to elegant. The basic bodice opens
in the back and is usually closed with lacing.It is boned
down the front, and on both sides with optional diagonal
front boning for more support (we call it the Wonder
Bodice effect!). It has no shoulder treatments and
a simple unadorned bottom. You may add any of
four shoulder treatments for a more period look:
a solid sleeve cap, a split sleeve cap, round or
square tabs (often called piccadils). In addition,
you may add any of three bottom treatments:
solid skirting (which is split on the side to allow
movement), round or square tabs. Adding a bottom
treatment avoids showing the gap that often occurs
between bodice and skirt.

AlterYears strongly recommends making a
mock-up first and adjusting it to your body.
The list of required stays is for an unmodified
pattern, but people vary just as much up and
down as they do around. After you've made
and fitted your mock-up, then measure for
your stays. Don't forget to allow for seam
allowance when measuring for stays.