Illustrate me...





While I was house sitting in August I took these photos of the costume illustrations that adorn my uncles walls they are so beautifully crafted. There are 12 illustrations altogether. x

Caulfield Cup...Perth Fashions on Field...

Well it is the first day of the racing season and the ladies were out in full fashion force! Hats of all types and descriptions adorned the heads of the fashionable ladies of Perth. Cream seemed to be the order of the day, however bright colours were not forgotten.

For a look at some of the finalists go to: www.perthnow.com.au

There were almost 185 entrants in the Myer Fashions on the Field competition, and only one winner who will go on to Melbourne for the National competition.

National Gallery of Victoria...


Federation Square in Melbourne really is a tourist hot spot! Showcasing the latest exhibitions including Tim Burtons collection of sketches, film and costumes from 'Edward Scissor Hands' and his most recent interpretation of 'Alice in Wonderland'. Also within the walls of Federation Square is the National Gallery of Victoria. One of the current exhibitions on show is called 'Australian Made' and is a collection of clothing made in Australia from the late 1800's to the 1960's. Entry is free and it is well worth having a look at the beautiful hats in the display case.

The NVG shop is full of fabulous books and accessories. I found 'The Little Dictionary of Fashion' by Christian Dior. This mini gem first published in 1954, is an interesting insight into what was considered the norm as far as how one should present ones self. This is Dior on hats "Now we come to the most pressing problem of this time. Shall you or shall you not wear a hat? I think that in town you cannot be really dressed without a hat." (p. 54)

One mighty hat...

In Renaissance France women's hats were quite large and extravagantly detailed. Queen Marie Antoinette had a hat in the shape of a ship complete with sails, rigging and miniature cannons.

Most of her hats were designed by the Milliner/Dressmaker Rose Bertin. Mme Bertin had the power to influence Parisian fashion, creating the 'must haves' of each season. It was undoubtedly partly due to this and her high prices that lead to the downfall of the French Monarchy. Mme Bertin is one of the few Milliners/Dressmakers who is remembered by name from that time.

(This information was obtained from various sources, the primary source was Colin McDowell, Hats; Status, style & Glamour 1992, Thames & Hudson ltd, London).

(Illustrated by Lucy)
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