Using real live models!

So for the project I'm working on right now I'm using a fit model, which is waaay different than using a dress form! I've been trying to draft a basic block based on measurements taken from the model (the lovely Miss Jenny) and am having issues with the fit. I think that the bodice is OK, and have yet to fit the skirt, but they don't fit together. I guess I'll find out when I fit the skirt which piece is working.

If these drafts don't work, then I may have to drape right on the model (I know, Mrs. O. That's what you told me...) but I am not quite sure how to go about it. Should she be in a body suit or something? I would imagine that it is easiest if I mark her bust, waist and hips like a dress form. If anyone has any suggestions please feel free to comment on this blog.

Next step, after perfecting the block, would be to start manipulating that block to draft a historical pattern. I'm confident in the skirt, that's just a long flared skirt (maybe gored) with added fullness in the back. The bodice is going to be the difficult part. I'm thinking that I may have to further the block in to a torso block and then to a jacket block. It seems like that would be the easiest way to get the right fit of the bodice.

I'll scan in my design sketch next posting so you get the idea of where I'm going.