Christine Wishing Gown, Back View

The last of the photoshoot pictures of my independent study gown. This one shows the back of the gown worn during Christine's song, "Wishing You Were Somehow Here Again" from Andrew Lloyd Webber's "Phantom of the Opera." More shots of just the dress can be found in my gallery. The gown took about three months of 10+ hours a week to make.

Differences between my gown and the stage production: a second, shorter apron was added on top of the main one; contrast dark blue fabric was used for pleats at the bottom of the skirt and lower apron; layers of light blue pleats were added within the waterfall on the back of the skirt; the top of the bustle has simpler "ribbons" made of contrast fabric along with a fabric flower rather than a bow. The opening of the hood is also bulkier, since it is ruffled. My goal with this project was to redesign Maria Bjornsen's original concept to put my own twist on it, as well as expand my sewing abilities and techniques.

The bodice contains four total layers: the striped fashion fabric, interfacing basted to the fashion fabric, coutil with boning, and a cotton lining. Gussets were added below the armpits for better range of motion. Each skirt layer (panniers, aprons, and underskirt) has its own lining, while the waterfall is made with three different fabrics. Trim includes blue ribbon, white lace, and blue pom-poms. Dress is worn with a corset and bustle underneath for support and shaping.

For a comprehensive view of the whole process, visit avmcdo11.wordpress.com