When choosing to design Much Ado About Nothing, the first decision was a period and place that would provide the necessary soldier characters. This led to England during World War I, as it provides a wealth of fashion trends and an advancement to the place of women in the workforce and society. While the male characters Claudio, Benedick, Don Pedro, and Don John would arrive in the British army uniform kits, Beatrice would also show her commitment to the war effort. She first appears in a suit, alluding to her volunteer service around London. Beatrice is a feisty character who would not sit idly by allowing the men to do all the work, but her family’s wealth would provide her the opportunity to volunteer rather than join the many women in factories at this time. This is in contrast to Hero, who is presented as young, quiet, and beautiful. Her virtue is the subject of many conversations and ultimately the climax of the story, reflected in the sweet and light way she dresses. She also presents many of the fashion trends present in 1918 including the beginning of shorter hemlines and sheer layers.