This gown was inspired by fashion illustrations from the 1570's depicting women from a variety of European countries including England, France, Germany, and Italy. I liked the fact that it was such an international style, and it also can pass for either middle- or upper-class looks just by changing a few accessories. To the right, you can see my original design sketch that combined my favorite elements from several of these fashion plates. I never really planned to make a dress like this - I was just trying to find a use for a remnant of striped cut velvet that I picked up last winter. But it kind of took on a life of it's own, and I'm just thrilled with the way it all came together. You can read more about this outfit in the dress diary for this project.