Edelweiss, the flower which inspired Ruth's piece.
Edelweiss inspired floral embellishment. These make up the hundreds of petals across the back.
Ruth
Each flower on the back of the blouse has nine-to-eleven petals, with 12 beads representing the stamen in their centers.
Flower petal stencils pinned down to the organza fabric and ready to cut out.
Cut organza flower petals.
Why I chose her
Edelweiss, the inspiration for this look, represents deep devotion, courage, hard work, and endurance. It is found on steep mountain terrains, making it hard to harvest, and has a reputation for growing in harsh conditions. This seems appropriate for Ruth, who remained committed to her widowed mother-in-law following the death of her own husband. Ruth accompanied her mother-in-law when she returned to her homeland under difficult circumstances and proved herself to be highly devoted and industrious. In the end, like edelweiss flowers, Ruth glowed and flourished in her new homeland. Ruth represents the many strong women who have persevered through tough times.