PHOTOS: Behind the beads: Fiesta dressmaker weaves raves
A "Texas dip" is no small feat
Credit: Martha Cerna / KENS 5
Prior to the big night, the women of the court must practice their bow. It's an ordeal to carry that much extra weight: the gown, a crown, a train and on top of that, to make what the NY Times referred to as the "Texas dip."
That Texas dip, or full court bow, is a carry-over from years of tradition. Eversberg says even in NYC every other debutante does a curtsy, but the Texas girls are stand-outs there as they gracefully perform a full court bow.
The one-of-a kind, hand-beaded and delicately embroidered costumes finally see the light of day during the Battle of Flowers Parade. And while the crowd "ows" and "aahs" at the sight of the finery, dressmakers like Javier Castillo can take only a moment to sigh before they cast their focus on the next court of San Antonio royalty.
If you want to know more about Fiesta gowns, stop in at the Witte Museums' exhibit "Designed for Royalty: Staging the Coronation." There you can get a closer look at gowns worn through the years. The exhibit is open from April 19 through August 26, 2012.
Other Fiesta Slideshows
PHOTOS: Skilled riders, artistic ropers thrill at Fiesta Charreada
PHOTOS: It's magic time! Parade fans flock to San Antonio's big day
PHOTOS: Hysterical pups leave 'em smiling at Fiesta Pooch Parade
PHOTOS: Coronation of the Queen sparkles in Fiesta extravagance
PHOTOS: Little rain can't dampen vivacious King William Fair Parade
PHOTOS: Bust a move, down some food at Fiesta's Taste of New Orleans
