Strange and Unusual
Nightshade H.
Fabric/Dye/Paint
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For years, I've wanted to make the Beetlejuice musical version of Lydia Deetz's dress. While the red wedding dress she wears is more popular, I managed to get a couple references for her iconic black dress. I did a sketch to break down the elements of the costume. The skirt is made of 5 different lace patterns, 2 of each type, totaling 10 panels, with a gathered lace ruffle at the bottom, connected by a studded trim. The bodice is flocked dot chiffon over a white cotton lining. The sleeves are gathered chiffon with lace insertion and lace cuffs at the ends. The neck is mesh with a grid and dot pattern. All the lace in this was upcycled and dyed, as I like to reduce the amount of material I use. I ended up making some of the fabric where I could not find some, I made the studded trim with painted studs and satin ribbon, and I made the pattern around the neck with embroidery floss and hand painted dots. While I could have compromised on some design elements and made my life easier, I wanted to make it look as close as I could to the original, which meant getting creative with fabric paints and dyes. This was my first time working with so much lace and chiffon, which was challenging as they are regarded as formidable materials by many seamstresses, but I’m really happy with how it came out.
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To me, creativity is a way to solve problems and create beyond the limits of convention. It gives me a way to express myself and connect my ideas with others.
