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Chloris – The awakening of the nymph
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Outline the story …
The awakening of the nymph was conceived as an ode to nature, announcing the return of spring. Chloris, nymph of flowers and plants in Greek mythology is represented in an 18th century version. Simple, natural and unadorned in a light and airy "chemise à la reine". Its silhouette is contrasted by the passion red color of the roses of the floral garland and the belt. It echoes the pictorial representations of the allegory of nature found in the work of Botticelli or the female representations present in Art Nouveau. She is also influenced by the art of portraiture in the 18th century, in particular the portraits of the Queen of France Marie-Antoinette.
Outline the construction…
The set consists of two identical dresses fitting one inside the other. An cotton voile underdress and an embroidered cotton organza overdress. All finishes are handmade. It was the first "chemise à la reine" I sewed. I like the idea it is adjustable to all silhouettes. The adjustment is made by links inserted behind ribbons, both on the front, on the back and the sleeves. I took care to use natural raw materials for both the dress, the belt and the floral garland (cotton, silk, wool, hemp). I wanted to combine sewing with embroidery techniques. this association is visible on the floral garland. The rope is macrame and the roses and leaves are embroidered in volume.
This is truly beautiful and it’s clear to see the amount of care that’s gone into it. What an achievement!
Such a lovely gown! Well done!