Author Archives: Clare

  Magazine pattern sheet, 1860 I was a consultant for the Great British Sewing Bee on BBC2, talking about early dressmaking patterns. Although we know these were on sale from the 1860s, very few tissue paper originals survive. It’s even … Continue reading →

Recently I attended the launch for Stephanie Talbot’s book, Slogan T-Shirts, Cult and Culture. It was a starry event, with fashion designers rubbing shoulders with journalists, bloggers and DJs. The book itself is a fascinating examination of the different meanings … Continue reading →

1903 lampshade panel for Hill House, Helensburgh (V&A T.66-1953) At the darkest time of year, it’s interesting to think about how much of a luxury artificial lighting was until the late nineteenth century, and the way that different forms of  lighting affected … Continue reading →

An exhibition at Westminster Reference Library, on until 30th November, highlights the work of the forgotten couturier Margaine Lacroix. Research by Dr Sue Ralph of Bath Spa University has shown that this designer was experimenting with draped construction and corsetless … Continue reading →

At the Costume Colloquium in Florence there were fascinating presentatations by curators and researchers from all over the world, sharing their new discoveries. There were special visits to museums new and old: the Palazzo Davanzati, with its recreated medieval interiors … Continue reading →

I have recently been appointed as Lecturer in Contextual Studies at the Royal School of Needlework. This is a fascinating institution, founded in 1872 in order to teach traditional skills in hand embroidery including Stumpwork and Goldwork. The setting at … Continue reading →