So I gave away the punchline above, but here is a slightly more detailed review... (and pictures, which is all that really matters)
As mentioned very early in this process, Deniz was unable to acquire the gauze-like material and instead used a material which has great weight (so no ballooning) and a very rich deep black color (as well as vibrant red), but it does not have the texture nor the poseability of the fabric we ideally wanted (and which Spenser ultimately brought to the table when he offered his outfit). I do not think that water treatment will aid much here as the weight of material is such that its drapes nicely but as soon as you move it, the material will shift and change.
The outfit was designed in three separate parts so it is extremely easy to dress a figure. Takes literally seconds -- tie the skirt on, clip the band in place, pull the robe over the head, and wrap the sash accordingly... DONE! But you will be taking the rest of the time in pinching, pulling and tweaking the robe to your liking. I would recommend some double-sided tape in a few strategic places otherwise it may slip from the shoulder or open on the side, etc.
The benefit of the separate pieces is that you can make an alternate look -- the Bad Ass Monk look. Now originally the intent was the skirt and sash alone for the Monk, but the material did not create a full enough flowing skirt. However, by using the robe to further fill out the skirt, you can create a solid enough Monk look as shown below. I think most people will go full Ceremonial, as that is the more dramatic look, but it is nice to have to option.
Here are both looks together (Spenser Ceremonial and Deniz Monk)...
As far as direct comparisons between Spenser and Deniz, I will be posting pictures so you can better see each.
In short, I believe that Spenser's outfit benefits from the correct material -- it has great texture and its poofiness can be tamed and shaped by water treatment. Spenser's is a single-piece with a defined shape (and a bit complicated at first to sort) but it will give you a fantastic ceremonial outfit once fitted and water treated for shape. Deniz material is less poofy but also has no texture. It is a snap to put on but is difficult to keep its shape once moved. However, it has the benefit of being in three separate parts, so changing the look (like the length of the sash or where the robe opens, etc) can be achieved as well as allowing for a completely different second look (the Monk). So it really depends on what you want for your display.
But after 2 decades of no 1/6th Mola Ram, I am thrilled that we now have so many options...
Think it's the shadows from the sides of the skull.
