First-ever exhibit on Greek costumes outside Greece

07 Feb '14

2 min read

For the first time in history, a collection of nearly 40 original ancient Greek costumes, replete with signature pleats, geometric designs and intricate embroidery, has been put up on display outside the country.

The Hellenic Centre in London is hosting ‘Patterns of Magnificence: Tradition and Reinvention in Greek Women’s Costume’, an exhibit featuring clothes, both everyday and formal wears, from the 18th to early 20th century.

Curated by fashion historian and costume designer Ionana Papantoniou, the display includes a richly embroidered costume from Astypalaia, part of the island group Dodecanese, a selection of fabrics from Stefanoviki, Magnesia and a brocade dress from Janina, Epiru.

Sourced from the country’s Peloponnesian Folklore Foundation and the Benaki Museum, the exhibit also showcases a court dress worn by the first queen of independent Greece, Amalia of Oldenburg, and an outfit belonging to the queen’s late 19th century successor, Olga, a Russian-born consort of George I.

Other than the featured exhibits, a limited edition scarf collection, inspired by the costumes, designed by Greek accessories designer Athena Procopiou, is available for sale at the same venue.

Talks and panel discussions related to Greek fashion will be conducted by eminent fashion personalities like Greek-Austrian born designer Marios Schwab, on the sidelines of the exhibit, which would run till March 2, 2014.

Fibre2fashion News Desk - India

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