Soldier Second Fitting

For this set of fittings both the Director; Doug and our course leader were present which although at first felt slightly daunting was in fact greatly helpful and reassuring. It was amazing to see the costumes in top fabric as now the production is evolving off the page in terms of acting the costumes are now advancing this even further. Doug especially appreciated this in developing their action but also to have a stronger visual of the production now the set design is also complete.

The Soldier looks fantastic and despite my earlier doubts now the shirt fabric has been washed a few times and been given a dye to dirty the bright white it looks great in texture and colour. Further washing and pressing will add to the wear once the shirt is completed. There were some minor alterations to the shirt including; removing the gathered appearance to the sleeves which was on Emily's historical pattern, reducing the shirt body in size and reducing the collar size a second time. Rebecca suggested adding details such as top stitching the shirt collar to add to its authenticity but also increase its  standard of finish.

Front View

Side view

Back view

Putties in calico close up - these will be made from wool but calico is used to test the width and wrapping height for the Puttie. This width of 3inches works really well.

Fastened cuff close up

Close up of shirt from the back - some fabric needs to be taken out for a slightly better fit. Otherwise it fits well and is comfortable for the actor.

Reflection:
The costume looks beautiful and really evokes a period feel especially with the braces that Grace and I found in the store which match perfectly. The black belt was doubted at first by the course leaders, but after debate it was decided a brown belt would look too co-ordinated with the shoes and braces, the black adds something so this will be kept. A belt loop will need to be added as it is currently too large for the actor. The shoes that we did find in the store purely for the purpose of the fitting were not correct as they were too modern but Rebecca thinks a brown oxford boot would look the part as the shoes also don't reach high enough up the leg to meet the putties. Buttons are needed for the shirt which must be a mother of pearl shell to fit the period. The fit of the trouser was great and it looks truly authentic, the breaking down to be added to the shoes trousers and shirt will complete it, especially when combined with the WWI rucksack I have sourced. 

To Buy:

1. Oxford boots in brown leather with leather sole
2. Mother of Pearl buttons
3. Possibly thread for top stitch