Whanganui Regional Museum is thrilled to showcase a sophisticated example of 1970s men’s fashion and to welcome the original wearer and donor for its public unveiling.
Generations later, in 1993, the exquisite dress found its way to the Museum’s collection through the generous donation of Eileen Martin, a granddaughter of Alivine and Wilhelm Franke. The dress has become not just a historical artefact, but a tangible link .
The dress, made from silk taffeta and satin believed to be imported from Germany and tailored in New Zealand, showcases a fusion of machine and hand sewing techniques.
By Karen Hughes Christmas has come early for the Whanganui Regional Museum with the arrival of a grand piano made by the renowned German-American company, Steinway & Sons. The piano is on loan for one year from the New Zealand Opera School .
By Karen Hughes The Whanganui Regional Museum’s latest Outfit of the Month has a curious connection to the popular British television show, Dr Who. The outfit for November is a 1939 black faille evening gown. The dress was donated to the Museum .