Regarding your advice for the pear-shaped figure - Please describe how to make the little hip drape shown on the "do" figure. I find all of your advice columns very helpful. Thanks!
Thank goodness, an easy question!
The "saddlebag disguise" drape I have illustrated is simply a rectangular scarf or veil about 2 1/2 to 3 yards long which is secured at the sides of belt by tucking in to the top of the belt, or pinning or sewing to the skirt itself as shown. This second method has the advantage of leaving the top of the belt free to tuck your other veil, the one you will pulling out to use for veil work.
Have a friend help you arrange the veil into the most flattering drape. The back should dip down low enough to show your fringe, as shown. Safety pin or sew it in place, or sew a loop of ribbon at each side of skirt casing and pull the veil through, which gives you the option of adding it or not.
This works well for a decorated veil which looks lovely draped over your skirt but is too heavy to use for veil work, or one that has an undecorated side which is less attractive.
Ironically it also is flattering on hips that are too narrow, because it adds more "flip" to the hip and the illusion of a curve.
Ask the Costume Goddess: A Pear-Shaped Figure. Costuming ideas for dancers with pear-shaped figures.
Ask the Costume Goddess: Hip Bulge. Suggestions on how to mask muffin-top hips.