Create a surreal and eerie illustration inspired by Edward Gorey’s distinctive style. The central figure should have an elongated, elegant silhouette, wearing a voluminous, striped gown with striking black, red, and white tones. The character’s hair should flow dramatically, as if caught in an unseen current, emphasizing a surreal and weightless atmosphere. Employ intricate cross-hatching to create detailed textures, from the folds of the gown to the strands of the hair, capturing depth and subtle shading throughout. The character's expression should remain calm and emotionless, reinforcing a sense of detachment and mystery. Keep the background minimalistic, with only subtle ripples or abstract waves hinted at in the negative space, giving the scene a dreamlike, floating quality. Incorporate symbolic elements, such as a delicate ribbon or shadowy birds hovering nearby, suggesting themes of isolation or transformation. The goal is to balance elegance with an unsettling stillness, capturing the whimsical yet melancholic tone characteristic of Gorey’s work.