After my first paid costuming job, I had two weeks before Zenkaikon and I wanted to make something to really impress the kids. Belle was a bit of a gamble, but I already had a hoopskirt I had never used, so I figured "why not?" (Though posting progress picture started the rumor that the high school's next show was going to be "Beauty and the Beast"...)

I wanted to do my own twist on her by combining aspects of the broadway version and some historical influences with the original dress. I also went with a gold palette instead of yellow because I thought it would compliment my complexion better as well as add to the opulent look I was going for.

Oh, by the way, the fall show was announced the week after I started working on my dress. Turns out, it's going to be "Beauty and the Beast!" Go figure!