Open Forum

Try Past Patterns.  They take patterns from original clothing.

ALFHAM has a list of resources (https://alhfam.org/)

Any living history museum like Greenfield Village at The Henry Ford Museum has a costume department, as well as Conner Prairie and Old Sturbridge.

Searching on Civil War sutler will bring up sources as well.

Hi Dr. Lundgren - 

I also bring to your attention that there are some professional costume/textile conservators who are also costume mounters who make the needed undergarments and/or mannequin modifications to obtain the proper historic silhouette of the garment using materials and methods that are the safest for the garment(s) being mounted for exhibition, photography and/or storage. You can access the free online referral service provided by the American Institute For Conservation at: 

https://www.culturalheritage.org/professional-membership/find-a-professional

This is always something I've done myself, so I don't have experience going to fabricators for the pieces, but you might be interested in A Practical Guide to Costume Mounting to get started. The instructions for making underpinnings are extremely clear and detailed. They don't have to be reproductions, since they're not being seen: they just need to create the correct shape.

American Duchess once gave a free pattern for an accurate style of bustle I can vouch for. However, if using a dress form without legs, it will not stay in position! Seems obvious, but I had to learn it the hard way.

Feel free to reach out to me off-list for more in-depth recommendations on your needs! I'm always happy to discuss and experiment.