COAT DRESS

Black long sleeved A-line garment with asymmetrical front opening fastened with four fabric covered buttons which have the identification "60 ASTOR" on the back. The outer fabric is smooth with a slight sheen, possibly synthetic while the lining is a very lustrous synthetic. The collar has a trim of six white fur tails with black tips and has additional metal press-stud fastenings. Additional machine-stitching on the front complete the design. The garment has been made by a dressmaker for the wearer indicated by the amount of handstitching in its construction. The coat was worn by Dame Alexandra Hasluck (b. 1908) in the 1960s and 1970s for state occasions in her role as wife of the Governor General Sir Paul Hasluck 1969-1974. Alexandra Hasluck was, in her own right, a well known historian and author of Western Australian history. In 1955 she published Portrait With Background followed by Unwilling Immigrants in 1959 - the first work on the convict period in WA. The honorary degree D.Litt. was conferred on her in 1971 and in 1978 she was the first Dame created under the Order of Australia. She was an active member of the Royal Western Australian Historical Society and was awarded a Fellowship in 1973. It was worn with a silk dress and accessories included white gloves, black and white hat, black bag and black shoes.

Department: 

Collection

History Collection

Collection Item Data