The Empress Dowager

I was inspired by the Grand Empress Dowager Cixi (1835 -1908) to make this steampunk design, which is a combination of traditional Manchu garments with an 1860s Western silhouette.

The corset is going to be black leather, possibly painted with the dragon motif. The phoenix headdress will be a lightweight metal decorated with blue (kingfisher... but not really) feathers and two long trailing tailfeathers down the back of the whole ensemble. The finger guards will be interesting to craft... but fun to wear.

I hope to have this baby done for DragonCon 2011, stay turned!