Museum puts call out for Gwen Gillam gowns
11 January 2012
Queensland Museum is putting a call out for garments designed by influential Brisbane fashion icon Gwen Gillam.
Curator Michael Marendy said as well as her garments, typical of the classic and currently popular ‘Mad Men-esque’ styles, the Museum was keen to hear stories about this fashion icon and successful business woman as part of a new research project and possible retrospective exhibition.
“During the height of her career in the 1950s and 60s, Gwen Gillam and her gorgeous designs were renowned for their creative adaption of international trends,” Dr Marendy said.
“They represent a stylish glimpse of Brisbane fashion in the 1960s, a time of rapid growth and change for the city.
“Her workrooms and retail outlet, based in the Brisbane Arcade, attracted fashionable Queensland women wanting an exclusive custom-made outfit designed by the legendary Miss Gillam.
“Gwen Gillam led the fashion scene in Brisbane, importing accessories from Paris and Hong Kong and employing an Italian tailor in her workroom.
“Just a visit to the designer was an experience - something out of a Hollywood movie, with the eccentric Gillam seeing clients in her elegant retail space fitted with stunning white couch and fresh gladiolas delivered daily.
“As part of our research, we are really keen to hear from past clients and employees as well as viewing photographs and garments particularly wedding and evening gowns from the 1960s,” Dr Marendy said.
Family of Gwen Gillam including Amy Wardrop, grand-niece and fashion designer, today shared some of their memories with the Museum, loaning a number of items including photos and garments for the research project.
Amy said that as a child she was surrounded by legendary stories of her famous great aunt, Gwen Gillam.
“I was greatly influenced by her, as well as my mother and aunt, who worked from a young age for Gwen in her design studio,” Miss Wardrop said.
“I suppose you could say that design and sewing are in my blood, with many of the unique techniques perfected by Gwen now proudly coming to the fore in my own designs.
‘’My Mother and Aunt started their careers in Gwen’s studio when they left school too and taught me to design and sew from as long as I can remember.’’
“What I find most inspiring about her was her self-motivation, starting an apprenticeship at 13, she built a well known and respected label through dedication and hard work.’’
To share information about Gwen Gillam contact Michael Marendy or Hannah Perkins on 3840 7726.
Media contact: Sarah Perrott , Manager Corporate Communications and Marketing (Wednesday – Friday)
T: 07 3842 9388 E: sarah.perrott@qm.qld.gov.au
Louise Sturgess (Monday – Wednesday)
louise.sturgess@qm.qld.gov.au
