This summer Wellingtonians and visitors to the city are spoilt for choice in regards to costume related exhibitions. Make sure you add these to your lists of summer-viewing.
1. Te Papa, Cable Street
Feeling nostalgic? Pop up to Level 4 at Te Papa to the Air New Zealand 75 Years. Fashion lovers can follow the trends throughout the decades brought to life by the airline’s uniforms – from the early military styles, the elegant days of 1960s Dior, funky seventies outfits, and more recent designs by Zambesi and Trelise Cooper. You can even try some on! On until 7 June 2015.
NAC Uniform, 1977.2. Yvonne Todd at The City Gallery, Wellington, Civic Square
Photographer Yvonne Todd is best known for her images of female ‘characters’ – highly stylised portraits of Christians, cultists, anorexics and sad eyed socialites. This ambitious retrospective brings together 120 of Todd’s best works, alongside her sources of inspiration. The latter includes ‘The Frock Room’ – a selection of vintage and celebrity gowns from Todd’s personal collection, all of which feature in her work. The designers represented include: Norman Norell, Malcolm Starr, Ungaro and Hollywood costumier Bob Mackie. On until 1 March 2015.
3. Katherine Mansfield Birthplace, 25 Tinakori Road, Thorndon
Katherine Mansfield Birthplace has joined forces with Toi Whakaari’s talented costume construction students (including C&TA member Georgia Pope) to present The Bodice Ripper: Katherine Mansfield from Decorum to Decadence. The exhibition features original Victorian and Edwardian underwear from Te Papa’s collection alongside stunning reproductions. Finishes 21 December 2014!
Corset by P.D. Corsets of Belgium, early 1890s. Te Papa.4. The Dowse Art Museum, Laings Road, Lower Hutt
This summer the Dowse is hosting The Age of Aquarius. Curated and toured by the Fashion Museum, the exhibition celebration of 70’s style through the wardrobes of six individuals. On until 1 February, 2015.
