EVENING DRESS

The dress was worn by Dame Alexandra Hasluck (b 1908) while fulfilling her duties as the wife of the Governor General, Sir Paul Hasluck who held office from 1969 to 1974. Careful note was taken of the garments worn at each function to prevent wearing it at the same place or with the same people. Theses details were recorded by Dame Alexandra's Lady-in-Waiting, Patricia Pidgeon (nee Daw) who also maintained an accessory, jewellery and make-up case in readiness for quick changes. (Mrs Pidgeon, 87 Philip Road, Dalkeith 6009). See H90/0386 for details of Dame Alexandra. This pink pleated dress was known as a five o'clock or cocktail dress because it is not full length. It is made from a synthetic fabric which has been permanently pleated, the same fabric unpleated has been used as a lining. The dress has an elasticised waist, long sleeves, a round neckline and a single button closing at the back neck. Around the waist is a tie of the same fabric. On the front of the shoulders are decorative patches of sequins and beads in shades of pink. The cuffs are gathered in with five rows of shirring elastic and the waist is gathered with elastic in a casing at the waist seam.

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History Collection

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