Telling fascinating stories drawn from across history, The Colour of Fashion delves into the significance of colour in dress, and explores how the symbolism has shifted over time. Colour is so entwined with our emotions that there are countless expressions and song lyrics, devoted to it. But what meaning does colour have in what we wear? What does a green dress convey when worn to a cocktail party, what significance does a white trouser suit have when worn by a female politician, and why does a woman in red command attention?
In this online talk, author Caroline Young will delve into the history and symbolism of colour, from the troubling history of textile dyes to the significance of colour and clothing in the Tudor and Victorian eras. She will also explore the crucial device colour plays in some of Hollywood’s classic movies. From the femme fatale in a little black dress, James Dean in a red windbreaker and Keira Knightley’s green dress, she will explore the key symbolism of colour, and how cinema has influenced key moments in the history of colour.
This is a recording of the online event, The Colour of Fashion, which originally took place on Thursday 23 June 2022 via Microsoft Teams.