Indian Jasmine, one of the two flowers that inspired the embellishments on Priscilla.

Indian Jasmine, one of the two flowers that inspired the embellishments on Priscilla.

Hand sewn sequins on the front modesty panel.

Hand sewn sequins on the front modesty panel.

Priscilla

The embellishments were inspired by Indian Jasmine and Stephanotis, which represent marital bliss and attachment. Each flower is made up of five hand-cut, white organza petals that have been sewn to the jacket and topped with Swarovski crystal centers.

Indian Jasmine petals made out of organza, pinned and ready to sew.

Indian Jasmine petals made out of organza, pinned and ready to sew.

Swarovski crystal-covered earrings.

Swarovski crystal-covered earrings.

Why I chose her

I chose Priscilla because she was a working woman who labored alongside her husband and was treated with equal respect. They are always mentioned together in the Bible with Priscilla often named before Aquila – a rarity in her time. The pair was clearly respected by their community and her “marriage of equals” really resonates with me as a feminist.

For her design, I wanted to portray a perfect balance between a working husband and wife team. The coat was inspired by a masculine suit-coat design paired with a fully integrated feminine front panel. Neither part of the dress can exist independently, demonstrating how fully integrated their lives and work were.