New Claremont Museum exhibition looks at local fashion

Claremont Museum’s latest exhibition, Fashionable Stories, takes a look at fascinating and iconic clothing worn by well-known community members from the Freshwater Bay area.

The exhibition opened in early November and has several recognisable outfits on display alongside an eclectic mix of garments from different time periods.

The stories behind these outfits, why they were chosen, and what they can tell us about the wearer and the time period are being retold for a limited time.

Some examples of the types of garments on display include:

• Julie Bishop’s blue dress worn at her retirement press conference, alongside a pair of bright red high heels
• A gown worn in 1996 by opera singer Sara Macliver when performing to Diana, Princess of Wales
• An Olympic boxing team tracksuit from 1964
• An incredible 1890s dress

Mayor Jock Barker said the exhibition highlights the significance of clothing throughout history.

“It’s a fascinating reminder that the clothes we wear on different occasions are impressionable and evoke strong memories, even if we sometimes don’t realise it in the moment,” he said.

“There are some great stories told in this exhibition and some amazing outfits on display.”

Those coming to see the exhibition will also have the opportunity to donate unwanted clothes at the new Good Sammys collection point located at the museum. Op shop chain and not-for-profit organisation Good Sammys will reuse the items and allocate the money raised to support people living with a disability. The donation bin will be available during museum opening hours.

Fashionable Stories is open until April 2024 during Claremont Museum opening hours. Entry is free.