Design Statement
Set in the Edwardian period, The Secret Garden tells the story of a young girl who finds friendship and family through a garden. Just as the garden is discovered, pruned, and awoken, Mary Lennox grows and finds childlike wonder that she had lost long ago. As a costume designer, I wanted to show the changes in her as well as the other characters. I used the Victorian language of flowers to communicate the characteristics of different characters as well as used flower motifs throughout my designs.
The Process
Mockup for Lily's Dress
Mary's English Nightgown
Mary's English Nightgown
I found a pattern that matched the Edwardian gown I had envisioned. I worked with our shop foreman on the edits and how to make it fit the story and the performer.
Mary's English Nightgown
Mary's English Nightgown
Mary's English Nightgown
I designed and chose the flowers for the embroidery on Mary's nightgown, beautifully stitched by Allison Neef. All of the flowers chosen matched attributes of Mary's character throughout the show.
Jacket Embroidery
Mary's English Nightgown
Jacket Embroidery
Similar to Mary's nightgown, I chose flowers that would work for every character. This jacket had some residue that I decided to have covered with embroidery.