Melbourne Unveils Australia’s First Fashion Library, Banning Stylists

In a unique initiative aimed at inspiring designers, Melbourne has welcomed Australia’s first fashion library, This Era Archive, where garments can be rented but stylists are not permitted. Nestled in what was once a nun’s bedroom at Abbotsford Convent, this innovative collection features exquisite vintage pieces, offering a tactile experience that is often crucial for fashion creatives.

The library showcases a selection of garments primarily from the 20th century, with labels from prestigious fashion houses such as Hermès, Prada, Christian Dior, and Valentino. A standout piece is a stunning slate-blue Hermès dress from the 1970s, made of delicate silk jersey, highlighting the collection’s high-quality offerings. Hannah Canham, the owner and curator, has curated this private collection over a decade, drawing inspiration from her experiences in major fashion capitals like New York, Paris, and Berlin.

Canham aims to provide a space where designers and fashion students can explore and draw inspiration from these garments without the influence of stylists. This approach ensures that the creative process remains authentic and personal, allowing designers to engage deeply with the fashion history encapsulated in each piece.

Source: www.theguardian.com