Category Archives: Uncategorized

At the time of year when all the Fashion and Textile courses are exhibiting graduates’ work, it’s good to think about the history of fashion promotion. One of the major attractions of the international exhibitions held around the world from … Continue reading →

The arrival of the English spring (slightly delayed) reminds us how much flowers of all kinds were appreciated in the past for their ephemeral beauty. Keen gardeners would invest significant resources in fostering delicate plants, building walled gardens and even … Continue reading →

A recent exhibition by the Nigerian-British artist Yinka Shonibare prompted some reflections on the relationship between medium and artwork, and between concept and execution, in contemporary art. Shonibare uses ‘wax print’ textiles, manufactured in Europe for consumers in West Africa … Continue reading →

  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 →