Halloween 2003

Click here for a big picture of this costume.

This is based on Simplicity 5359, with some modifications. Notably, the top uses, instead of the recommended trim, a sturdier one, and is belled instead of fringed along the edges. I'm not thrilled with its fit, but it works. If I do this again, I'm using a fabric with a little stretch, and I do think a flimsier trim; this trim makes the neckline stand out a little.

The most notable change is in the skirt. Instead of the solid panels it calls for, I alternated sari fabric with sheer chiffon. Then, realizing I'd be arrested if I wore that, I cut some rectangular panels of black chiffon and put those over the sheer panels. That worked well. Obviously, I left the ruffle off of it; the ruffle made for an unnaturally stiff lower edge.

The veil is about 2 yards of sheer black chiffon, belled along its edges, and attached to a plain haircomb. Not much to report there.

Fabrics: The gold is 50% silk/50% "something else" twill, lined in black cotton, from a discount store. The sari fabric is 100% cotton, and the chiffon is polyester, from Joann's. The necklace was found at a Claires; the rest of it comes from Pillaged Village -- coin earrings, finger-cymbals, bells, and the belt. I forgot to wear my belled anklet, but I've forgotten where I got it anyway, so there. The bells are applied with dark blue needlepoint thread. The ribbon trim is from Calontir Trim -- it is gorgeous.

Overall, despite some fitting issues with the top, I found the pattern quite easy to cope with, even with my modifications. If I had to do it over again, I'd make the panels more even, though this time I like the haphazard effect of differently-sized triangular pieces.