Discover the different meanings of black in fashion. Spanning across more than 100 years, view a selection of stunning collection items, some of which are returning home for their first public display at Saumarez Homestead.
After a successful showing in Sydney, Back to Black heads to historic Saumarez Homestead, a spectacular Edwardian mansion in Armidale.
Wearing black is laden with cultural meaning, from mourning a loved one to suggesting chic elegance. This exhibition explores black’s different meanings in the past, while offering visitors the opportunity to reflect on their own relationship with wearing black in the present.
Historically most often associated with mourning, black was also a special occasion colour for formal wear, receiving visitors or for going out on the town. The fashion for black in the 1890’s morphed into the ‘little black dress’ from the 1920’s flapper era to the 1950’s New Look. Black has been an enduring staple of a fashionable wardrobe ever since.
Black clothing has been adopted to express authority or to subvert and challenge it. The careful choice of colour in dress can make statements about class and gender, power and privilege, group affiliations and particularly subcultures, or be used to signal emotion.
Back to Black includes objects on display that span more than 100 years, with well-known designers – both Australian and international – alongside examples made in the home or by unknown, skilled dressmakers.
Come and join us at Saumarez where black’s sartorial elegance and richness will be on display throughout various rooms of the Homestead. From the passing of someone cherished, to preparing for the day, then promenading and partying into the evening, Back to Black at Saumarez Homestead is a rich and fascinating exploration.
