I'm making Belle's ballgown, and I've got some questions! Sewing Machines Parts and Sales in Los Angeles

I’m looking into the specifics about constructing Belle’s yellow gown, and I was hoping some of you lovelies could help me!

The big question for me is on constructing/fitting the bodice. I’ve got limited experience with boning, but I’m not sure how to accomplish severe ‘bends’ in the seam such as at the waist or in the front. I’m looking to replicate the bodice seen in her park dress with how it juts out at the front point and rear zipper at an acute angle. Can metal boning handle that? What about sewing that seam in general without puckers or weird pulling? I’m thinking of using canvas as a strength layer along with boning and a waist-stay.

On the same topic as the bodice, I’m not sure how to approach the chest. I’ve seen sew-in cups at the store that can be added to the bodice, but wonder if it would be better to fit the bodice over a strapless bra? I’m also small-chested with a short torso, so I’m not sure what would be best for keeping the bodice in place. (I don’t want to ‘be a chicken’ the entire day wearing the dress!)

Finally, a question about hoopskirts! I’m going to have to shorten the length of mine due to my short height, but I know it might be a little tricky with the hoop at the bottom. Would I be able to ‘shorten’ the entire thing by taking it up slightly in-between each of the hoops? The hoops should be adjustable, so I think I can tweak their sizes based on the new hoopskirt length. Please let me know if anyone has other suggestions or advice in this area!