Hi all,

I’m very excited to report that some of my favourite 1970s garments are going on display as part of a new exhibition at the Glen Eira Gallery on Australian fashion of the time. From the website:

Step back into 1970s Melbourne and explore the era’s bold fashion.

Discover iconic designs by leading fashion designers and labels including Prue Acton, Jenny Bannister, Sally Browne, Clarence Chai, Mr Simon, Miss Hartnell, Leon Haskin, Elvie Hill, Van Roth, Norma Tullo and others.

From vibrant colours and striking patterns to experimental styles, the exhibition reflects a time of creativity, individuality and cultural change.

Featuring garments, accessories, photography and archival material from public and private collections, this exhibition invites all ages to explore, connect and be inspired by the distinctive style of the decade — from bohemian to disco and beyond.

Details:

What: Fabulous 70s: a celebration of Melbourne fashion

When: Friday Oct 9th to Sunday Dec 20th, 2026

Where: Glen Eira Art Gallery, Town Hall, cnr Glen Eira and Hawthorn Roads, Caulfield 3162

Cost: free

More information: see the Glen Eira website.

Included from my collection, will be select garments from Tullo, Merivale, Sally Browne, Prue Acton and others. I’d like to thank everyone who has entrusted their treasures to me, it’s wonderful to be able to share them and their stories with people.

As part of the program there are many talks including by designer Sally Browne and myself. More news on that soon.

Image: Athol Shmith, No title (Fashion illustration. Two models with wooden sculpture) (1970s), Gelatin silver photograph, 50 x 39 cm, (image) National Gallery of Victoria, Melbourne. Presented through The Art Foundation of Victoria by the Shmith Family, Governor, 1995 © Estate of Athol Shmith. Courtesy Kalli Rolfe Contemporary Art.