Construction Details:

The research that went into this costume was extensive. I did research on the actual military uniforms at the time, and used the art Himaruya offered up as well in forming my design.

Every pattern used to create each garment (shirt, breeches, waistcoat, overcoat) was historically accurate for the time period. The hat was a historical replica as well, though I did not make it myself.

The fabrics I used were not historically accurate, as I took some artistic license and used cotton sateen and jacquard to really make the costume pop. Upholstery fabric was used for the sash.

The cravat pin and sash were beaded with Swarovski Austrian crystal, and I used a decorative stitch along the perimeter of the costume for a decorative flair. The epaulets are fastened with 14 carat gold buttons with the Austrian crest on the face.

I even wore violet circle lenses and employed a leather riding crop to give a nod to the Viennese Riding School, a dressage school where they train the Lipizzaner horses.

Personal Thoughts:

First Place Masters Division at AnimeFest Dallas 2013!

This costume was a labor of love. I used historical reference, historical patterns, and nods to the country itself in the costume construction. I chose non historical fabrics to use, as I wanted it to really pop and look elegant. The sash and cravat pin were beaded with Swarovski Austrian crystal, and the epaulets on the shoulders were buttoned with 14 carat gold buttons depicting the Austrian crest on the face. It was a lot of fun to wear, but also VERY HARD to wear.

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