This was one of the first completely original designs I ever created and boy did I have my work cut out for me. I originally wanted a fairy costume for Dragon*Con but didn't want to deal with having wings in the large crowds. Thus, I came up with the idea of a fire sprite; a fairy-like creature with horns instead of wings. The more I developed the idea, the more it changed into a sort of urban fairy with seriously modern elements. Eventually the design morphed into the punk-fairy-showgirl you see here.

This costume took forever to create. I used a pre-existing pattern (with some modifications) for the bodice, but the skirt had to be drafted. The fabric I used was an acetate satin taffeta that looked black or dark red from different angles. I purchased the gold and copper trim off Ebay and set to work.

The bodice is lined with black cotton and laces up the back via a series of red grommets and gold satin soutache. The arm drapes are probably my least favorite part of the costume, as they really restrict movement. I've since added elastic tabs to attach them to the bodice, which helps, somewhat.

The skirt is also lined in black cotton and has a black knit waistband. The rows of sequins around the "flames" on the hem were handsewn and took an eternity. The yellow fishnet arm warmers and thigh highs were purchased specifically for the costume and the boots were something I already owned. Finally, I hand sculpted the red and yellow horns from craft clay.