LIFE & STYLE
‘Dress Rehearsal’ at Salts Mill
‘Dress Rehearsal’, the first exhibition to be staged by Yorkshire Fashion Archive, is in Gallery 2 at Salts Mill, Saltaire until Sunday 15th May. The exhibition showcases a selection of garments donated to the Yorkshire Fashion Archive (YFA), based in the School of Design at the University of Leeds. But, it is more than a garment display – the clothes are accompanied by large photographs and anecdotes from the original owners, as well as film footage from the Yorkshire Film Archive.
A nationally significant resource The Yorkshire Fashion Archive reflects changing social attitudes and multi-cultural influences, economic prosperity, global trends and the regional technical excellence in textiles and clothing over a 100 year period. It will provide a nationally significant resource for the development and support of education, research and the community. As we progress further into the 21st century, it is imperative that we continue to gather evidence of Yorkshire history from this new perspective before the voices are lost forever.
Providing a snapshot of life Fashion may seem like a passing fancy, but, as the archive is showing, it can provide an intriguing glimpse into people’s lives, going beyond the designs and fabrics and reflecting the economy and skills in the area. This is what the archive has set out to do. Wherever possible the garments and accessories are not seen in isolation, but connected to their owners. One lady in her 80s has donated her wedding dress (in pink!) and going-away outfit from the 1920s; another some great dresses from the 50s and 60s, with photos of one dress on a girls’ night out. Linking the garments like this brings them to life. It is fascinating.
We’re very excited about this exhibition. It’s an opportunity for us to highlight some of our key items and give people a historical and cultural snapshot of Yorkshire in the 20th century Claire Watson, Senior Teaching Fellow, School of Design Photo: Michael Anderson
Burberry are donating several of their iconic trench coats (which are still manufactured in Castleford) to the archive and their Chief Creative Officer, Christopher Bailey, is an enthusiastic member of the Executive Committee and patron of the YFA.
Exploring society’s experiences The twentieth century was a crucial period in the cultural, industrial and intellectual development of Yorkshire. The archive is helping to explore society’s experiences, values and beliefs during this time and capture the textures of real lives. The collection currently boasts a wonderful selection of wedding and evening dresses and other formal wear, day wear, and furs (including a rather creepy stoat stole!). There are stylish hats, snakeskin shoes and elegant handbags, and an interesting collection of men’s fashion.
10 May | northleedslife.co.uk
Do you have items looking for a good home? People always tend to keep their best garments, so the collection has some really lovely pieces. However, the YFA is very interested in getting more everyday fashion – even down to pinnies and headscarves! The aim is to reflect all ages and genders, and the multi-cultural diversity of Yorkshire. They would also welcome items from famous local stores like Schofields in Leeds and Brown Muff’s in Bradford, and local manufacturers as well as famous national brands. For further information or to donate garments, contact Claire Watson, on 0113 343 3793, or yfa@leeds.ac.uk, write to Yorkshire Fashion Archive, School of Design, University of Leeds, LS2 9JT or visit www.yorkshirefashionarchive.org Dress Rehearsal at Salt’s Mill is open Mon-Fri 10am5.30pm, and Sat-Sun 10am-6pm until 15th May. Free admission.