Spring 2010 Undercover

 

‘From the first ever patented bra in 1915 to the most modern underwear developments of anti-cellulite knickers and a bust-firming bra – these are just some of the fascinating garments that are on display.’ 
 

For centuries women’s bodies have been shaped, enhanced and even controlled by underwear, a means to obtaining the desired fashionable figure. While bras are an everyday functional garment, unlike most other items of clothing, they can also take on an emotive, titillating or even scandalous nature!

These ideas are explored through the exhibition, the design of which is planned to be visually dramatic and to entice the visitor into the intimate femininity of the boudoir.  Sumptuous displays and captivating shapes will guide visitors through different eras of underwear - from health garment and shape definer to fashion ‘must have’. It also explores a number of themes such as: boudoir to everyday glamour; ‘Stars and their bras’ (which explores celebrity branding); and how the changing face of underwear advertising and marketing has been interwoven with social, cultural and economic changes. The research and innovation section explores how this has changed the way we wear our underwear, and the exhibition is planned to culminate into a white, futuristic space to view the innovative fabric and technological design yet to come.

The exhibition originated from the Fashion & Textile Museum in London and Curator Alison McCann has collated the most exquisite pieces from a wide range of private and public collections that read like the Who’s Who of underwear; Elle Macpherson Intimates, M&S, Triumph, La Perla, Stella McCartney, Christian Dior, Calvin Klein, Myla and Wonderbra to name just a few. From the risqué to the radical, pieces include the first Merry Widow corset inspired by Lana Turner in the film of the same name; renowned burlesque artiste Immodesty Blaize’s corset; dress made from bras and briefs by designers Vin & Omi and a Swarovski crystal-encrusted bra. 

Alison McCann said ‘Developments in underwear have moved with the social and economic times and this exhibition charts how female underwear has evolved over the last century – encompassing the onset of war to the changing role of women in society – from a functional item to a thing of beauty.’

In addition we are planning a series of special events, practical workshops and public presentations by designers, historians and prominent figures from the lingerie and fashion sector. See events for more details.

Undercover is a touring exhibition from the Fashion & Textile Museum in London
www.ftmlondon.org

The exhibition launch will be held on Friday 7th May at the Hub - those interested in receiving an invitation should email:
melanie.kidd@thehubcentre.info asap.