The Coronation of Poppea (1643) is an Italian Opera by Claudio Monteverdi based on the historical events surrounding Nerone and Poppea between 58AD and 65AD but adapted into a single day.

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From initial designs we were required to redesign for the  two main characters, Nerone and Poppea from a specified period. 

Re-design 1830

This was a period of  gigot “leg of mutton” sleeves, full conical skirts and wasp waists created with tight corsets for men and women together with exuberant hair styles, hats and accessories. The brief limited the colour palette to red, black and cream. I based the narrative on British Royalty during 1830 - William IV and his mistress Mary Robinson, an actress and celebrity figure.

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The costumes were designed to magnify their positions in society and exaggerate the already exuberant styles of the period. Designs were embellished with beading, feathers and embroidery in a Paisley pattern technique.

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I chose to make the costume for Nerone, because it was challenging to create historical patterns, millinery techniques and incorporate new tailoring skills during lockdown and distance learning.