23 October 2023 - October 2024
At first glance, the world of fashion and the gravity of military service may appear distant, even disparate. Yet, they share a tapestry of connections that reveal themselves in profound ways.
Our latest exhibition explores the rich connections between the uniforms that once graced the battlefield and the iconic fashion staples we embrace today.
Trenches to Runway delves into the profound impact of military clothing design and wartime conditions on popular fashion, tracing these influences from the 1870s to the present day. Discover how wartime led to innovative design solutions and how the fashion industry reinterpreted these styles, giving them new meaning and expression in civilian life.
As you journey through this unique blend of history and style, you'll uncover surprising links between military traditions, everyday life, and contemporary pop culture. Our clothing is more than just fabric; it's a story waiting to be told, a window into culture, politics, and history.
Trench coat
Fashion illustration (late 1940s-early 1950s) By Jacques Heim, Paris Image courtesy National Gallery of Victoria
The Royal Navy 1907
Image courtesy Cornell University Library
Military-issued Ray Ban sunglasses
Reproduced courtesy of the Australian War Memorial (P07256.023)
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