GAIETY THE KEYNOTE

Otago Daily Times, Issue 26624, 21 November 1947, Page 2

GAIETY THE KEYNOTE

FASHION TRENDS IN AUSTRALIA

Fashion trends in Sydney and Melbourne were discussed in an interview with the Daily Times yesterday by Mr S. Lawn and Miss Munro, who have just returned from a visit to Australia.

“ The most noticeable thing about Sydney,” Mr Lawn said, "is its gaiety Conversation is gay, faces are gay, and clothes are gay.” Miss Munro agreed that clothes were certainly more colourful than those in Dunedin, although black predominated for the smartly-dressed woman, but costume jewellery in gold or diamante, and perhaps a gay contrasting glove or bag set, were always worn with neutral colours. Shoes were a revelation, and were showing in all shapes and in brilliant colours. Hats were definitely " in.” They were worn morning, noon and- night, and ranged from small flower, feather, and veiling confections for theatre or dinner wear, to large picture hats for luncheon or afternoon engagements. Popular colours were sled red, madonna blue, grey and bright shades of rose or purple. Only on rare occasions did frocks of an exaggerated length make their appearance, but the hem-line had certainly dropped a little.

Skirts, pleated all round, were popular, jackets were short and pert, except for the dressy type of tailored suit w'here the coat w r as quite long. The classical tailored suit was still on the same lines, Day frocks featured wrapped diagonal lines, cross-over bodices and sidedraperies, with crisp white lacy collars and jabots, while coats had loose backs and full skirts. Cape collars struck a new note.

Evening gowns were glamorous to a degree. Flowing skirts, pleated skirts, skirts full and bustle-backed, or with huge bows giving back-interest are seen in the attractive window displays. Bodices are intricately draped (part of this flowing drapery is sometimes used like a ” sari ”), and trimmed with sequins or diamante. ” We have to admit,” Miss Munro said.

” that articles made of Australian wool and sold in Australia are very reasonable and plentiful, but this is because the industry is heavily subsidised by the Government; which insists on the production of a large amount of wool, and imports very little. Sydney women seem to enjoy spending, and it would be something of a tragedy to be in that city without money ”