I am a creative costume maker based in Poole, Dorset, skilled in advanced sewing, pattern cutting, garment construction, design, and historical costume research. I am inspired by nature, am passionate about craftmanship and sustainability. I enjoy creating pieces that are bespoke, beautiful and which tell a story. I created this 1930s Red Dress for Soprano Caroline Taylor in her role as Violetta in La Traviata for Dorset’s Hurn Court Opera production in April 2026. Symbolizing blood, passion, desire and tragedy, the dress reflects both the emotional intensity and the fate of the character. I carried out extensive historical research into opera, the character and the show, cultural and social contexts of the era and 1930s couture techniques. Collaborating with designer Wayne Martin I cut the dress on the bias, to include triangular godet inserts and a dramatic, sweeping train. Made entirely to measure, I developed the
patterns through draping and cutting directly on the stand. Every decorative element was handcrafted and hand stitched, including 16 metres of rouleau trim, slip stitched strips of lace, a herringbone-stitched crinoline hem and a carefully backed and lined pleated velvet collar. The dress is embellished with 28 handmade applique motifs resembling drops of blood, incorporating over 4000 hand- sewn sequins adding sparkle and dramatic effect. The dress is fully lined and fastens at the back with 16 hand sewn hook and bar closures. It was further enriched with over 2000 individually applied hot-fix gemstones and 25 handmade velvet ‘blood drop’ discs. The dress required 14 weeks of work – equivalent to 65 days or approximately 520 hours. Performances took place in Dorset theatres over 3 nights in Christchurch, Winchester, and Blandford where many people commented on the dress’s visual beauty and striking stage presence.
07706596256 @jennymaker69 jen.saint@btinternet.com