I love the way those tie up in knots! I have a lot of fun with stripes but haven't seen that set-up before.
I can't really help you on your question. I know I have a very modern project that is still in the mental planning stage but getting pretty close to being kitted out that uses a lot of black and Asian-inspired metallic fabrics. For me I think what I need is sashiko stitching in gold thread and I am not great at handwork but I'm afraid that's what that top needs. I'm hoping to change my mind by delaying progress but I guess I'll have to learn a new skill.
Either way you go, it will be lovely. Would the embroidery be by machine or by hand?