I really like this picture, but... what is that 'thing' behind Chikane, or Chikane is carrying?? (added temporary reference note, will delete it later)
Also is there a name for these cute shoes Himeko is wearing?

A hate, one of those tall bucket like ones with a chin strap so it doesn't fall over.

i think its a helmet of some sort

That's French kepi, military head wear of French military.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kepi

From the color of the band and the silver braids, Chikane is an officer in the French cavalry (...) Makes sense I guess since that's cavalry trousers, boots, and saber.

The shoes I have no idea.

But according to author's note, Chikane is wearing Prussian cavalry officer uniform (from 1813), so kepi is out of the question. Also I googled a little and I have an overall idea what kind of hats were in use then, but still just can't recognize it in this picture.

Maybe the shako then. Uniform could be Prussian hussars, but who knows really.

KJlost said:

Maybe the shako then. Uniform could be Prussian hussars, but who knows really.

That it most likely is.