I started out by fitting my client in muslin. The original pattern called for double darts under the bust...

...which, given my client's shape, just never worked quite right. We decided to alter the pattern to use princess seams instead.

It looked much better. Originally, there wasn't going to be anything around the neckline. After seeing the strong the contrast of the pale yellow sleeves against the green of the dress, I thought it needed softening. I used some of the sleeve fabric to make a small gathered trim for the neckline. She really liked it, so it stayed. You can see it in this photo along with the bodice lining, which I had started to pin on.

This is the inside of the finished bodice. It's fully lined and the armscye seams are finished with binding.

Finally, my client in her finished dress.

It's so nice to have this project done. Now I can focus on getting ready for my trip to MA. I still can't believe I leave in four days.