Fashion & Freedom: New Fashion and Film Inspired by Women During the First World War

The onset of war in 1914 changed British society. As men left to fight in Europe, over a million women went to work for the first time. New responsibility gave women new freedom and led to new ways of dressing, as silhouettes and social codes changed. 'Fashion & Freedom' presents original designs by Holly Fulton, Roksanda, J JS Lee, Vivienne Westwood, Emilia Wickstead and Sadie Williams, and a new film from SHOWstudio and Luke Snellin. Also included are works by the next generation of fashion talent? all influenced by the new fashions and freedoms worn and won by women in 1914-18. Costume from Manchester Art Gallery?s collection of pre- and post-war fashions complements the exhibition. This publication includes stunning images of the new fashion designs, historic costume, sketches and stills from the films alongside contextual essays and text about each new commission. 00Exhibition: Manchester Art Gallery, United Kingdom (13.05.-27.11.2016).