For my first project in my Costume Construction degree, I chose to design and create undergarments inspired by the 2006 film “Marie Antoinette,” written and directed by Sofia Coppola and starring Kirsten Dunst. While the film takes creative liberties with historical accuracy, its stunning aesthetics, particularly the colourful costumes designed by Milena Canonero, captivated me. I aimed to infuse a contemporary twist into a historical garment, drawing inspiration from the vibrant colour palette of the film, which Canonero derived from colourful macaroons and pastries.

Inspired by the bold use of pink in the film’s opening credits, I decided to craft my panniers and corset in hot pink with black trim. Using historical undergarment pattern books and my model’s measurements, I drafted my own patterns and meticulously assembled the panniers, ensuring the metal boning was properly inserted and filed down to avoid sharp edges. I then crafted a large black pleated trim for the panniers’ hem and constructed the corset from hot pink cotton based on a traditional 16th-century pattern.

To embellish the corset, I sourced various ribbons in shades of pink and black, as well as silks and velvets. Employing hand-stitching techniques, I meticulously attached these ribbons to the corset, incorporating rouging to add texture and create a luxurious and expensive appearance. I am delighted with the dramatic final result, which aligns well with Sofia Coppola’s contemporary interpretation of Marie Antoinette’s story.