Amneris' Wedding Outfit: Research
Amneris' Wedding Outfit from the Broadway musical AIDA consists of three pieces: a fitted lace dress, a floor-length chiffon veil, and matching Egyptian-style headdress. This costume is unique in that Amneris dresses while on stage, which gives us clues on the construction.
Dress - The lace dress is made from a white lacey fabric, similar to many wedding dress fabrics you can find in stores or online. The dress has a mandarin collar and tight long sleeves. The collar has a V slit in front and the sleeves are piped at the hem. The dress is very fitted and floor length. It has side zippers running from under the breasts over the fullest part of the hips so that it is easier to put on (seen when Amneris' handmadiens 'sew' the sides up during "I Know the Truth"). The back closes with velcro (theatre trick), and I think it only runs from the neck to the back of the knees, leaving the knee to the ground free so that Amneris can walk.
Veil - Amneris veil is very full, floor length. It covers her completely, in front and back, and has stripes that run parallel to the floor. I think the stripes are designed to give the veil some weight, so it is not so unmanagable when Amneris moves. Most likely made out of chiffon.
Headdress - Amneris wears a white Egyptian-style headdress. It is ribbed much like her Mummy Outfit with a flat top. It covers all of her hair and the back of her head (but not her ears).
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