THERE is absolutely no need to travel to New York when there’s a fabulous fashion exhibition running in Sydney.
The Old Government House is showcasing four rooms full of clothing preserved by the National Trust from the peak of black clothing fashion trend of 1880 and beyond.. This exhibition takes visitors on an Australian historical and sartorial journey as dyes become better quality, textiles cheaper and fashion influencers of the time turned to black for everything from mourning to partying.
Queen Victoria, the pin-up girl for black fashion, famously started the trend, wearing black for the rest of her life after her husband’s passing. With the Victorian strict hierarchical rules about widows mourning colour coded to express the passing of time it was a huge era for black until rules relaxed and some department stores had a special section just for mourning clothes.
The exhibition is organised into passing, preparing, promenading and partying, you get a great sense for when department stores opened with ready made clothes allowing easier access to a range of styles and cheaper than a dressmaker
It’s an incredible array of preserved clothing, from laced bodices, horse riding attire for side saddle riding, ballet shoes, silk threads, handbags, gloves, jackets and undergarments. If you feel inspired you can even pick up a stencil and design an outfit yourself.
For an amazing day out, combine the visit with a yummy lunch at nearby Misc restaurant, just a ten-minute walk through the park or for an overnight visit, stay at Skye Suites and chill out at their sauna, 25 metre lap pool and enjoy the stunning rooftop view while you dine at Nick and Nora’s.
The exhibitions are funded by entry fees & private donors.
Open 11am- 4pm Saturday, Sunday and 10-4pm Thursday, Friday March 15 to November 10.
Entry $15 adults, $12 concession Private group tours available.
Address: Old Government House, Parramatta Park, Pitt Street Entrance, Parramatta.
