Mardi Gras Queen

I was asked to make a Mardi Gras dress this year based on one of my original designs.  I was more than happy to comply.  My client's only specification was purple silk.  For the overdress, we went with a beautiful purple silk velvet trimmed in white gold trim.  The underdress was a bit of a fluke.  I neglected to purchase a swatch before ordering the silk, sure I could return it if it was truly horrendous.  Unfortunately, the company changed policies and no longer allowed returns on non-defective items.  It was a fortunate problem, though.  The silk dupioni, which was called grape, was an incredible cross dye of fuchsia and royal purple.  It shimmered in the light like no plain purple ever could. The Overdress This piece is built more like a jacket, with a skirt that swept around the sides in gentle curves.  The front is laced up with ribbon loops.   The trim, which has a vague dragonfly design, surrounds the hem.  It is lined in the same silk dupioni as the underdress is made of.  The sleeves are a narrow angel wing and split to the elbow. The Underdress This dress is actually made in two pieces: a bodice and skirt. The bodice is heavily interlined and lightly boned along the front to keep the center point down.  The back laces up.  The skirt is nothing short of enormous.  A generous hem will allow for future adjustment, as do the three hooks on the waistband. Hoopskirt sold separately.  On ebay, in fact. Pricing This dress, using similar fabrics, starts at $600. Different fabrics or styles will cause the price to vary.