By Belle Silhouettes
The podcast currently has 59 episodes available.
In this episode of Silhouettes, I am joined by art historian and author Dr. Elizabeth L. Block PHD to explore the fascinating world of 19th-century hairdressing.
Elizabeth, a Senior Editor at The Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York, discusses her latest book, Beyond Vanity: The History and Power of Hairdressing (MIT Press, 10th September 2024).
We dive into the cultural significance of hair, the entrepreneurial spirit that fueled the industry, and the untold stories of Black and mixed-race business owners who played a pivotal role in shaping hair styling trends of the time. From the pompadour to the Gibson Girl bouffant, Elizabeth reveals the surprising details of historical hair care routines and the powerful impact these styles had on society.
Join us for an enlightening conversation that uncovers the rich history and cultural power of hair. If you're passionate about fashion history or curious about the origins of hairdressing, this episode is not to be missed!
Pick up your copy of ‘Beyond Vanity’ here
If you enjoyed this conversation and want to hear more, an extended version is available to members of the Behind The Seams community. Join to support the podcast and access bonus content on Patreon or Spotify
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In this very exciting peek Behind The Seams we're guided on a tour of Blenheim Palaces wonderful "Icons of British Fashion" exhibition by Kate Ballenger, the Keeper of Palace and Collections, who has played a pivotal role in curating this stunning showcase of British fashion.
As we walk through the exhibition, Kate shares her insights on the careful curation of each space to reflect the distinct essence of each fashion icon featured. She also discusses the intriguing decision to include Sir Winston Churchill's attire, adding a unique historical dimension to the narrative of British style.
Listeners are treated to a live tour of the exhibition, guided by Kate's expert commentary, exploring the rich tapestry of British fashion trends and styles over the centuries. The episode is filled with behind-the-scenes stories, fascinating discoveries, and the triumphs encountered during the mounting process.
Kate shares her unique journey in collating and curating this iconic exhibition at Blenheim Palace, providing an insider's look into the inspiration behind hosting the "Icons of British Fashion" exhibition in such a historic setting, exploring the synergy between the palace's grandeur and the evolution of British fashion.
Join us for this captivating journey through Blenheim Palace, where history and fashion converge in the "Icons of British Fashion" exhibition.
Thanks for listening, and stay fab everyone.
In this exclusive episode, we delve into the world of haute couture and historical elegance with a deep dive into the "Icons of British Fashion" exhibition at the majestic Blenheim Palace. We are thrilled to be joined by Kate Ballenger, the Keeper of Palace and Collections, who has played a pivotal role in curating this stunning showcase of British fashion.
Kate shares her unique journey in collating and curating this iconic exhibition at Blenheim Palace, providing an insider's look into the inspiration behind hosting the "Icons of British Fashion" exhibition in such a historic setting, exploring the synergy between the palace's grandeur and the evolution of British fashion.
We explore the challenges faced in bringing together a diverse array of designers and labels, and the meticulous research and acquisition process involved. Kate explains the selection criteria for the featured designers, highlighting the significance of showcasing the works designers such as of Dame Vivienne Westwood and Zandra Rhodes.
Finally, Kate shares her vision for the impact of the exhibition on the perception of British fashion, both domestically and internationally, and the legacy she hopes it will leave for future generations of designers and fashion enthusiasts.
Join us for this captivating journey through Blenheim Palace, where history and fashion converge in the "Icons of British Fashion" exhibition.
Join the Behind The Seams community to support the podcast and access bonus content on Patreon or Spotify
Follow on Instagram and TikTok for episode updates and bite-sized Fashion History more.
In this episode we are thrilled to welcome bestselling author DG Rampton, renowned for her Regency Goddesses Series. Known for her strong-willed heroines, charming gentlemen, and sparkling dialogue, DG Rampton's novels are a delightful blend of romance and humour, set against the rich backdrop of the Regency era.
Join us as we dive into the inspiration behind her popular series, her passion for Regency fashion, and how these elements shape her captivating stories. DG Rampton shares her research process for accurately depicting Regency fashion, the role of clothing in her characters' lives, and the historical events that influence her narratives. We also discuss her approach to crafting authentic, witty banter and the enduring appeal of her books, which regularly top the charts in Historical Romance and Humor & Satire.
Whether you're a fan of Regency romance, fascinated by historical fashion, or just love a good story, this episode offers a delightful glimpse into the world of DG Rampton and the timeless allure of the Regency period- join us for an conversation filled with insights, laughter, and a touch of regency elegance!
Join the Behind The Seams family to support the podcast and access bonus content: www.patreon.com/silhouettespodcast
Thanks for listening, and stay fab everyone.
Follow the podcast on Instagram @Silhouettespodcast for more updates!
In this episode of Silhouettes, I sit down with Katie Godman, to chat all about the brand new exhibitions on display at Blandford Fashion Museum.
We discuss the new "Our Sporting Heritage" exhibition, as Katie gives us an insightful look into the highlights of the exhibition, featuring Victorian riding wear, tennis gear and a more modern Paralympic uniform.
We also dive into the fascinating process of mounting fashion exhibitions and the research involved in showcasing historical and contemporary sporting attire.
Tune in for an engaging discussion on the intersection of fashion and sports throughout history.
Thanks for listening, and stay fab everyone.
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In this episode of Silhouettes, I took a trip to Leighton House in West Kensington to chat with curator, Hannah Lund, all about their brand new exhibition: ‘Out Shopping: The dresses of Marion and Maud Sambourne’
In this episode, we discuss the changing fashion landscape of the turn of the century, how personal stories can be unearthed through the study of fashion, and how to preserve and conserve historic clothing for use in museum exhibitions.
‘Out Shopping: The Dresses of Marion and Maud Sambourne (1880-1910)’ unveils the Sambourne House collection of dresses belonging to the mother and daughter, showcasing hardly seen, rare surviving examples by leading dressmakers of the era. For the first time in the history of the museums, the exhibition spans across both Leighton House and Sambourne House, inviting visitors to embark on a immersive journey.
★★★★ Evening Standard Leighton House, the fabulous home of Lord Leighton, the artist, has a fascinating little exhibition of clothes owned by the wife and daughter of the Punch cartoonist, Linley Sambourne. This is brilliant social history!
Book your tickets here: https://www.rbkc.gov.uk/museums/out-shopping
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Thanks for listening, and stay fab everyone.
Follow the podcast on Instagram @Silhouettespodcast for more updates
Dear Gentle Reader,
It has come to this the attention of the podcast, that there is to be a grand ball! All members of the sewing ton are invited to craft their finest garments for this most joyous occasion. Your gracious hosts request the pleasure of your company at this most prestigious soiree. Only one question remains…will you join your hosts for this season's most unforgettable evening of dancing and merriment? ✨
In this episode I am joined by Richy Wedge, lover of 18th century and Regency fashion, contestant on The Great British Sewing Bee, and host of the Bridgetown Ball- who is currently busy sewing an outfit for this joyous a occasion!
Myself and Richy chat all about his personal attachment to regency era clothing, and of course the inaugural event of the season: The Bridge Town Ball, a Regency-style ball, that rather than striving for complete historical accuracy, aims to make an inclusive and enjoyable for all with the tagline Pride not Prejudice 🐝🪡🧵
Listen now to find out more about this wonderful event, and immerse yourself in the joys of regency inspired fashion ✨
Join the Behind The Seams family to support the podcast: www.patreon.com/silhouettespodcast
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In this exciting collaboration episode of Silhouettes, we're stepping into the immersive world of Fashion City: How Jewish Londoners Shaped Global Style, the captivating new exhibition at the Museum of London Docklands. This episode will offer you, my listeners, a unique glimpse into this remarkable celebration of the Jewish Londoners who played a pivotal role in building London's reputation as a fashion capital.
From Dot Cotton's iconic coat to a Mr. Fish smoking dress, this exhibition illuminates the significant contributions of Jewish designers to London's fashion narrative. Join us as we uncover the tales of these visionary creators, who not only influenced London's fashion landscape, but left an indelible mark on the global stage.
We're joined by Bethan Bide, a design historian at the University of Leeds, and the academic advisor to "Fashion City," and Lucie Whitmore, fashion historian and curator of “Fashion City”. Not only will Lucie and Bethan share their insights behind the curation of "Fashion City," exploring how they navigated the intersections of culture, creativity, and identity, shedding light on their research processes, as well as how they decided to showcase these narratives through the pieces selected for display, they will also guide us through the exhibition, leading you from the doors of a traditional tailor's workshop in the East End to the glittering ambiance of a Carnaby Street boutique amidst the heart of a cultural revolution.
"Fashion City: How Jewish Londoners Shaped Global Style" has been extended for visitors until July 7th, 2024, offering an extended opportunity to immerse yourself in this captivating journey through fashion history.
About Museum of London Docklands
The Museum of London Docklands is located at West India Quay in east London. Opened in 2003, it occupies one of the few remaining original grade one listed warehouses, built in 1802 to store produce from the West Indies.
A shared place in the heart of the East End, where stories cross and collide, it confidently shows how international trade, migration, enslavement and the river Thames were integral to shaping London and the world we live in today.
The museum is open 7 days a week, from 10am-5pm and is FREE to all. You can explore the Museum of London with collections online - home to 90,000 objects with more being added regularly.
Praise for “Fashion City”:
"Brilliant!" - Patrick Grant
"It's the best fashion exhibition I've seen in years" - Alexandra Shulman (Mail on Sunday)
"A thorough and nuanced depiction of the makers of London fashion" - Evening Standard
"Immersive and brilliantly assembled at every turn" -Apollo Magazine
"Expertly crafted" - Glass Magazine
"A must-see for anyone interested in either fashion history or London history" - Amber Butchart
Join the Behind The Seams family to support the podcast and access bonus content: www.patreon.com/silhouettespodcast
Thanks for listening, and stay fab everyone.
Follow the podcast on Instagram @Silhouettespodcast for more updates
In this episode of Silhouettes, I am joined by Elisabeth Gernerd, 18th century dress historian and author of The Modern Venus: Dress, underwear, and accessories in the late 18th century.
This episode continues our Valentines special season all about the history of undergarments, lingerie and underwear.
‘The Modern Venus’ highlights the significance of this element of a woman’s wardrobe in the 1770s and 1780s, detailing how undergarments played their part in transforming fashionable dress at a time when clothes were expanding to both new heights and new volumes, exploring the socio-political power underwear held.
Listen now to find out how, through the use of a range of contemporary sources, ‘The Modern Venus’ unpacks the importance underwear has had as an overlooked garment, defining not just a woman’s silhouette, but it’s social and cultural influence.
‘The Modern Venus’ can be bought from Bloomsbury publishing at the Bloomsbury visual arts imprint here.
Join the Behind The Seams family to support the podcast and access bonus content: www.patreon.com/silhouettespodcast
Thanks for listening, and stay fab everyone.
Follow the podcast on Instagram @Silhouettespodcast for more updates
Disclaimer: This episode focuses on naughtier topics like sex, sexuality, and perceptions towards the female body! ❤️
When used to colour women's lingerie, red's poignant symbolism engages with societal perceptions of feminine sexuality and empowerment, and on this weeks episode I celebrating am Valentine’s Day and talking with fashion historian Summer Anne Lee all about the symbolism, fashionability and societal meaning of red lingerie and underwear in history, focusing on her work for the Underpinnings museum digital exhibition ‘A History of Red Lingerie’ ❤️💋
Incendiary: A History of Red Lingerie tells this story through thirty objects, dating from circa the 1860s to 2017’ So listen now to find out more about just what it means, and what exactly you’re communicating, when wearing wear red underneath your clothes.
‘During some parts of the nineteenth century, fashionable shades of red in women's dress included scarlet, crimson, cardinal, garnet, ruby, poppy, and even a "dull deep hue" called "antique red" (Harper's Bazaar, 1868). Yet opinions of brightly-coloured undergarments were vexed, variously considered abhorrent and improper, or stylish and inflammatory. New associations were formed by the middle of the twentieth century. Lingerie was marketed to women in countless shades of red, including flame, bright rose, spice, cherry, firecracker, and siren. These were considered fun and bold hues to enliven one's wardrobe and were often combined with black for a "dramatic look" (Women's Wear Daily, 1952). Since the sexual liberation movement of the 1960s, red lingerie has developed more romantic and seductive associations, gaining a reputation for being "sexy," "red-hot," "smoldering," and "incendiary."
Listen now to find out more! ❣️
Visit the exhibition: www.underpinningsmuseum.com
Join the Behind The Seams family to support the podcast and access bonus content: www.patreon.com/silhouettespodcast
Thanks for listening, and stay fab everyone.
Follow the podcast on Instagram @Silhouettespodcast for more updates
The podcast currently has 59 episodes available.