The armor she has is based off the one she wore in her very brief appearance in the official comics. It kinda bummed me out that we never got to see much of Novo in the comics outside of very brief cameos, especially when other movie characters got their time in the spotlight. The comics could have been a perfect opportunity to really explore her character.
Getting back on track, I assume that the armor belonged to her husband, and she would be very reluctant to wear it. But she wants to honor his legacy in any way her can, and if it means wearing this in battle, then so be it.”