Rose pink matron of honour dress

Norma Evans drafted the pattern for this finely crafted dress, which was worn by Doreen Kelcher when she was matron of honour at Norma's wedding. Norma found the hem particularly difficult to execute. There is a Juliet cap and corsage from the outfit in the Rotorua Museum collection. Doreen had been married six weeks before Norma.  She wore the dress later to balls.

Details

Credit: Images courtesy of Rotorua Museum Te Whare Taonga o Te Arawa (1996.22.488a)
Copyright: Image © Rotorua Museum Te Whare Taonga o Te Arawa
Maker: Norma Evans
Manufacturing location: Kurow, North Otago
Garment type: Matron of honour dress
Material: Crêpe
Features: This dress features a scalloped neckline, cross-over bodice with diamond-shaped front motif, and curved yoke with gathers. The three-quarter length sleeve has a scalloped edge, and gathered shoulder treatment accentuated by small stiffened shoulder pads. Bright green beads have been applied in a flower and leaf pattern to the bodice, and the 16 panel skirt is the same as the bride's. The dress has a side placket and domes.
Colour: Rose pink
Date: 1946