Princess Belle

Jess Fox

Princess Belle

Debuted at the 2017 Calgary Comic & Entertainment Expo.

Creation

Months of work went into this costume. Everything was made from scratch by designer Jess Fox, and while it predates her university studies, Fox was still able to portray incredible skill in order to draft, pattern, sew, and add detail to this complex gown. The costume consists of 4 pieces; a large hoopskirt with metal boning, a flowing underskirt, an extravagant skirt, and a metal boned corset.

The gown has many details including hand-beaded strands and chains, hand-beaded faux roses & rose petals, and handsewn ruching. The skirt showcases bustle-like designs on the hips to add dimension to the silhouette, various points of gathering to create unique lines, and a massive bow at the center back. The corset uses both solid and patterned fabrics to create contrast and has hand embroidery and beading similar to the skirt. The corset is fully lined, and the skirt & underskirt are edged in lace, or finished with an overlock serger stitch to create a clean look.

The design itself was thought up upon the first announcement of the live-action Beauty and the Beast which came out that same year. Designer Jess Fox wished to create her own spin on the iconic gown.

Competition

This costume won designer Jess Fox a position in the Top 3 of the Novice Division at the Calgary Comic & Entertainment Expo in 2017.

Photos

Photography was done by MHYSA Photography.

Digital illustration was done by Dallas Gordey.