Full 1st Stage Victorian Mourning - 1850's

Hi
This gown was constructed for a local museums Funeral Follies seminar. The wardrobe curator wanted an example of full first stage victorian mourning attire. The first three pics are construction phases and the last is me!
After researching the apparel customs of 1850's mourning practices in Canada, I was surprised to find that a subtle fabric pattern and a small bit of tasteful lace lace trim was appropriate. The common knowledge was during first stage - no pattern, no lace trim and no jewellery . Turns out, as long as yr entire ensemble was flat black, yr good to go.
A little frue frue wont hurt anyone. After all, a girl always has to look her best- even when in mourning.
a side note.... .... I scared the wits out of a few of the arriving students. From a distance, they said I looked like a ghost from a gothic horror movie! Cool!