In this case, it's a lot easier to paint the gold trim first, and then paint the black of the hat around it. I've tried to make sure there's a visible light ochre (almost white) edging on the top and also on the gold trim below the cockade. The trim has a texture of fine lines very faintly painted on with diluted leather brown and a small amount of ochre.

Next up is the collar and the rest of the jacket. I've found these reference photos of a replica jacket: http://en.empirecostume.com/parade-jacket-of-colonel-aide-de-camps-du-marechal-c78-a3257.htm

Some progress on the jacket.

Look good Edward....

I've got this figure which I bought recently.
I will follow with great interest your work. Don't hesitate to share with us more of your tips.
Best,
Julien

Fantastic work on the gold embroidery and epaullettes

Wow, this guy coming out to be a real dandy!

Joe

Some fine progress on a difficult subject. The reference pictures that you showed in the link are great btw, very useful site.

Alex.

Beautiful and clean work on the "golden" clothes - dont know the correct name.

Pedro.

I've been painting the red coat and trousers. I'm going to keep working on the shading and highlighting but have nearly finished the red.

good start

Nice one Ed, I've always fancied this one yself, but never got round to it. It is a very deceptive figure. There's much more to paint than at first. You're doing a great job.