Everything on this project, from the hat to dress, is custom drafted patterns. Materials used were stretch suiting for the dress and hat, sheer chiffon for the sleeves, and a lightweight lining material. After the dress was assembled, it was time to think about the hovering candles. Using plastic sign material and clear plastic molding, I cut the bases into squares and sliced a v-shape into the middle of each. Then, cutting the plastic to different lengths, I gave the candles the look of them hovering on different levels so it appeared like in the film. To prevent the train from collapsing in on itself and to keep the candles from shifting while I walked, I added a steel hoop into the hem. The skulls throughout the dress were handcrafted from lightweight air dry foam clay. Each face was hand painted with the details throughout.

For the hat, I used a steel hoop base that you would use for cages or hoop skirts. I scaled the hat down from the original size because it would have been too crazy otherwise and I wanted to make it easier for travel purposes. Using the thickest interfacing available and plastic sign material from Home Depot, I created the base layer of the hat. With another layer of interfacing done, I cut and added the outer shell fabric. The flowers are draped and hand stitched over the base hat. I created a candle stand and sliced into the top of the hat and glued it into place. The same method was for the feathers and the ferns as well. To protect the top of my head, I added some green foam to cushion and help take some of the weight off my head. Scallops are pretty standard. Designs are stenciled on both sides of the scallops and are handsewn as well. Candles are battery operated and are removable for travel purposes.

Finally, the wig was three wigs clipped and sewn together to try and create that beautiful volume from the film. The large marigolds were purchased in the garment district of NYC and with a little sparkle and detail added to them, are pinned into the wig just above the ears.