I Love the 1880s - Sewing Edition

So a friend of mine is having a victorian tea for her bridal shower.  I wanted to wear something more dressy and potentially appropriate for the whole victorian tea atmosphere.  Channel the spirit.  Some looking online brought me to puffy sleeves, floral and/or light fabrics, and lacy details.  The whole high neck, floor length thing is getting scrapped for 80-90 degree summer heat.

I had less than 2 weeks to the event when I decided to make a top to go with a white skirt I have with some eyelet detailing at the bottom.  No money for fabric so I pulled out some black fabric with a grey floral design on it.  One out of two isn't bad.  No money for a new pattern, so enter McCalls 5661 View E.  Beyond what I would estimate my skill level to be, but so be it.  I've committed myself to the project.  Pics below, and more info on my blog here and here.  I just need to get buttons for the back and do the button holes and I'm done.  I've been going back and forth on color for the buttons - black, white, combo of both, pearlized, etc.  What do you guys think?