This project was an interpretation of Stefanie Genda's 2012 design for Much Ado About Nothing for the Rutgers Theater Company (http://www.stefaniegenda.com/much-ado-about-nothing.html).

This costume was drafted and constructed using theatrical methods to create a Tudor-inspired silhouette, with fitted bodice, shoulder rolls and faux slashed sleeves.

The bulk of the gown is cut from rich purple duchesse satin which is cartridge-pleated to create the overskirt and mounted onto coutil to create the bodice. The sleeves are cut and faced in the same satin with faux sleeve puffs and ruffles made from ivory organza.

The petticoat, shoulder rolls and front bodice are cut from teal duchesse satin which has been screen-printed with an imitation damask print. It is printed with suede binder which has been heat-pressed to create a three dimensional raised texture for depth.

This project formed a part of my second year project submission for my BA Costume for Theatre and Screen studies at Wimbledon College of Arts. It was initially made and fitted for Rea Pešušić, who has my gratitude for her time, and was ultimately modelled very kindly by Sophie Rebecca Clark.