well after a few attempts, this was the best I could get using distance clouds. Actually I can do better than this, but for now it stays, as I've got a giant to do list. I did try actually modelling the clouds, and tried out the DX11 tessellation stuff, but it wouldn't deform the cloud-plane enough. So that leaves me with…
had some limited success. got the bulb shape ok with distance clouds, but need to work on the texturing. its basically all down to the work you do in GIMP(er photoshop for normal people). @Xoliul: I hear ya, but its a fantasy scene with a sinister/evil overtone. Well thats the plan at least.