Creative costumes for every occasion
Millinery
University Speculative Project
Meg March Bonnet – Little Women (1860s):
As part of a university millinery course, I designed and constructed a period-accurate bonnet for Meg March from Little Women, set in the 1860s.
Inspired by a line in the novel describing Meg’s garden, the bonnet features hand-embroidered roses, heliotrope, myrtle, and orange blossoms—each chosen for both historical accuracy and symbolic meaning, reflecting Meg’s romantic and nurturing character.
I studied 19th-century fashion plates, museum collections, and original construction methods to inform the silhouette and materials. The final piece was built using traditional techniques, including buckram shaping, millinery wiring, and silk embellishment.
This project strengthened my technical skills, expanded my understanding of historical costume design, and reinforced the narrative power of detail-driven, character-based work.
Blocked Fabric Hat – Independent Project:
Millinery Practice
Alongside my millinery module, I created this hat using traditional blocking methods combined with fabric manipulation techniques. The design involved a simple construction process, but the final result demonstrated how subtle techniques can produce striking and detailed visual effects.
I particularly enjoyed this project for its balance of simplicity and creativity, and for the opportunity to explore texture and form through hands-on experimentation.
Sequin Crown – Fabric-Led Design Experiment:
Millinery Exploration
This crown was created as an experiment in using detailed fabric as the focal point of a piece. By allowing the material to take center stage, I explored how surface texture alone can quickly convey intricacy without the need for heavy embellishment.
The sequin fabric added a rich, decorative quality that gave the crown a regal appearance—making it suitable for stage or costume work. This project highlighted how fabric choice can elevate a simple form into something visually impactful.
Historical Headwear Research – Little Women Project Development:
Design Exploration
These designs were developed alongside my research for the Little Women bonnet project, as I explored various 19th-century time periods to determine the most appropriate setting for Meg March’s character. This research process helped me refine the silhouette and context of the final design.
I especially enjoyed this stage of the project, as it deepened my understanding of historical women’s headwear and broadened my knowledge of fashion evolution throughout the century.
