Thread: need costume design help

I was going to suggest darts too. You could probably make them without having to redo the belt.

OMG! this is so creepy! the costume I'm working on right now is also my first, it is a coin costume (fake coins, though), same coloured covering material, EXACTLY the same bra shape, with a belt i'm not 100% satisfied with and i was thinking of adding pearls to it!!!
it's a small world...now, back to topic

Originally Posted by Athenaserpent

OMG! this is so creepy! the costume I'm working on right now is also my first, it is a coin costume (fake coins, though), same coloured covering material, EXACTLY the same bra shape, with a belt i'm not 100% satisfied with and i was thinking of adding pearls to it!!!
it's a small world...now, back to topic

LOL...great minds think alike!

Originally Posted by TediThomas

I've always preferred a belt that has dartage across the back, even for designs with much lighter weight "trim". A darted back portion of the belt conforms to one's backside giving a much better fit and appearance, and helps to keep the belt from slipping down (for most people) or drooping. I've found that having four darts along the back (two on each side spaced out from center starting just outside the dimples-of-venus) tends to create that curved look to the back of the belt even on an originally strait design.

I have a bunch of belt patterns and was going to do the bigger one where is fully covers the butt and has darts...but I was worried about the darts....LOL

I really need a sewing for dummies book....anyone have one? darts scare me...I am thinking the belt is so thick...I think it would be so bulky....

I like the mixed coins, and I like the combination of brocade, mixed coins, and pearls/mother-of-pearl. It's just a matter of finding the right pearl/mother-of-pearl piece, and repeating the element throughout the costume, so it blends instead of sticking out.
Coins & pearls are kinda vintage, and coins & mother-of-pearl is a nice Earthy look.
After all, ancient tribes did use pearls & shells, including mother-of-pearl, as money, and these seashore items were often traded many times and wound up in the hands of tribes living far inland.
As for the belt. Real coins get HEAVY! My suggestion is to put on all the coins you plan to use THEN alter and re-enforce the belt as necessary.
I'm not sure what you mean by "dropping down" in back? Does the belt itself actually sag, or is the cut of the belt too low, like a scoop neck t-shirt that scoops too deep for comfort?
Darts at the top edge of the belt will give the belt a more 3-d shape and fit your body more snuggly so it's less likely to slip and sag due to weight. You can also add elastic along the top edge on the inside for added security.
On the other hand, if the shape itself is all wrong.. fixes are harder, if they work at all. If the front of the belt is Ok, just cut that off and make the belt a 2-piece design. So worse case scenario, you're remaking only half a belt instead of the whole thing. Darts along the top might help reshape the belt, or darts in the bottom. The top edge can be re-enforced with plastic boning, steel boning, or wire. I've used ordinary coat hanger wire in bras for re-enforcement.

Originally Posted by nitewindz

I'm not sure what you mean by "dropping down" in back? Does the belt itself actually sag, or is the cut of the belt too low, like a scoop neck t-shirt that scoops too deep for comfort?
.

the cut of the back is more scooped then the front piece..if I press it up right too me..then it stays...but when I start to shimmy....it starts to droop...had my hubby take a couple quick pics

just thought I would post a link to my progress....I bought some filigrees to add.....and got some chain today and am currently making the danglies.....I have to still finish sewing on the coins...but i was getting bored and wanted to work on something else. LOL

Coin Costume Blog

It looks great!!! A very elegant earth look :)

here is the latest update





I still have to add all the draping..I am going to make it w/ hooks so that it can be removable.

Wow!