Part Five of the series on Loel Thomson’s Costume Collection.

I must confess to loving the ‘twenties - oh those rebellous flappers and all that rule breaking! We’ll probably never see their like again and still I’m in awe. It takes a lot to convince a young woman, heck, any woman, that showing off your feminine wiles isn’t important. I’m also in awe of the consistency of the ’20s ladieswear; there are minor deviations, sure, but what you generally see is a long tube shape of a dress (or suit or top and skirt) and a concerted effort to counteract female curvaceousness. It makes it a very easy era to date - the simplicity of the silhouette is counteracted by the luxury of the silk fabrics and the detailing: glass, steel and anthracite beading, gelatinous sequins (whatever you do, don’t put a sequinned flapper gown in water!).

I’m particularly impressed with Loel’s collection of ’20s: simple and embroidered cotton day dresses and extravagant evening gowns. It’s hard to appreciate the beadwork without closeups but if it looks fabulous, believe me, it is.

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Part four of the series of photos taken at Loel Thomson’s Costume Collection on Monday.

I’ve taken “Edwardian” to cover the period from 1900 to 1920, and it encompasses one of my favourite eras, the “teens”. Garments from the teens are hard to find, however, and most of these come from the earlier part of the era.

In many ways, the Edwardian era is the last one of grandeur - it’s the transition between the ornate and detailed hand-made and hand-finished clothing of the Victorians and the ’20s when all the rules went out the window. Whilst quite wearable, clothes of this era tend to look very “costumey” on the modern wearer.

1912 Wedding

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Part Three of our visit to Loel Thomson’s Costume Collection.

Loel has a wonderful collection of garments from this era, it was hard to pick just a few. The bold colours of the silks have been well preserved and are still striking after all these years. Loel researches all details thoroughly and styles the hair and mannequin to match each era.

1850s Crinoline

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Part Two of our visit to Loel Thomson’s Costume Collection.

Here is a shot of part of the exhibition space:

I must admit to focusing on twentieth century costumes, and now wish I took more of the early pieces - here is an Empire line gown from about 1810 and a couple of Regency era costumes from about 1820.

Had a wonderful time at Loel Thomson’s Costume Collection yesterday - many thanks to Loel for sharing her collection, and everyone who could join me.

Took many photos, and it’s hard to choose which to post, so shall bring them to you in sections according to category. The first one is appropriate as we consider the impending Spring and Summer: swimwear. Loel has set up a collection of men’s and ladies swimwear from the turn of the twentieth century to the 1970s - I especially like the way she’s accessorised everything!

Come inside for closer shots of some of my favourite bathing suits. (more…)