Susan's Battle Outfit

I have most of the materials for this costume. I have the garnet red velvet for the skirt, gorgeous red embroidered taffeta for the bodice and sleeves, and some gray flannel or gray felt (my choice) for the annoying collar (which might get nixed). Also, my chainmail hauberk (technically a haubergon) is half finished. I ordered more chainmail rings - hopefully they will get here tomorrow. Oh, here's my version of what my dress will look like:
I can't decide if I want to have an underdress shown at the neckline or not. The skirt is not another separate skirt; it's just an inset. Of course, you won't see the neckline because it will be hidden under chainmail (and possibly an ugly collar). But I want the dress to be pretty enough to wear without the chainmail - like to the Renaissance Faire. As for the corset, I haven't gotten very far on that yet. I do know that I want it to be extra long like hers. Hers doesn't stop at her waist; it continues to the top of her hips. Gorgeous.

I've made a muslin of this dress and everything works well except the neckline. I can't quite get it right and now it's WAY too low. Definitely not queenly. I want to have the muslin perfect before I cut into my $9-a-yard velvet.