Creative Constraints or That's All Ya Got?

Vintage fabric is a blessing and curse.

 Unearthed from who knows whose Great Aunties's world travels, time warped to you. Glossy, like thick cream and only 29" wide, it comes conveniently packaged in 5 yard lengths....And go!

Auntie was probably a Mad Man era vixen, Harilela's sold these brocades in their Hong
Kong Hotels.

This is more than enough for a cocktail frock or cheongsam, which I'm sure was the intent. Not so much for an 1880's ballgown, and you know that's how I like it. The dilemma is how much other visual information to add, by that I mean, taffeta-lace-embroideries? Do I drape the brocade with other fabric and lessen its appeal, or go a little more spare and let it speak for itself. 
Hey Muse.

The vintage trim and my favorite scalloped edge.

 I finally used the velvet and metallic trim I've had for years and was keeping for just the right thing. Some may think of it as a bit hoardy,  I like to think of it as eventual grave goods. You can't use all the things, but you can leave them for someone else to find.

I decided on side panels of embroidered silk with a golden taffeta lining

A liberal application of sew-on sparkles later, it came together, if a little slowly. When you have scraps left there is no do-over.

Post ball, after larks and hi-jinks, shockingly gloveless but surrounded by friends.

Ever Your Thimble Servant,
Miss Brilliantine