1890's half mourning dress

I was inspired by the new Simplicity 1890s pattern that came out.  I had some black moire bengaline hanging around and heard about a mourning museum nearby (http://www.arlingtoncemetery.us/museum.asp).  Naturally, I had to make a mourning costume!

Though I know velvet was not appropriate for mourning (confirmed by several primary sources), I trimmed the skirt with it anyway.

 

I also made the bonnet, which I blocked with buckram over a styrofoam head form and covered in black "brain" velvet.

Here are the directions I followed: http://www.carolinabelles.net/vb/showthread.php?t=4971&highlight=make+bonnet