CAVALCADE OF FASHION

Wairarapa Times-Age, 9 March 1940, Page 4

CAVALCADE OF FASHION

DISPLAY IN OPERA HOUSE ON MONDAY. MANY INTERESTING FEATURES. Pioneer times were .times of hardship and danger yet, in spite of all, pioneer women never lost that dignity and feminine grace that so well became them. This fact will be illustrated on Monday night at the Opera House when, in connection with Masterton Centennial Week and in aid of the Patriotic Fund, there will be presented a cavalcade of fashions ranging from 1840 to the present day. To the accompaniment of suitable music there will be displayed by local mannequins of all ages the varied and bewildering changes of fashion, from the time of the foundation of the colony to the present day. The name of the wearers and the history of each "creation” will be given. To the feminine mind there is always a fascination in the changes of fashion, but to follow its vagaries may be something of a perplexity to an audience of men. These, however, will be offered the very interesting opportuniiy of making up their minds whether they prefer the high waist, the low waist, or the waist in its proper place; curves amplified or altogether banished sweeping trains or skirts to the knees; the hobble skirt or crinolines, and bonnets or hats.

The final dress rehearsal took place lost night under the supervision of the committee set up to stage the cavalcade. Members of the committee are Mrs T. Jordan (chairman), Mesdames T. R. Barrer, H. G. Moser and E. J. Rich. Misses M. Cameron and K. Cruickshank. Mrs Jordan will act as announcer, while Mrs Rich and Miss Cameron will make efficient stage managers. The music is in the capable hands of Mrs Miller Hope, assisted by a small choir. The coloured lights have been lent by the Masterton Amateur Dramatic Society. Reservations of seats are being made only for those who have assisted or lent dresses. The cavalcade will commence at 8 o’clock, but doors will be opened at 7 p.m. and it will be advisable to come early to avoid a crush. Proceeds from the small charge of Is (no half price) will be donated to the Patriotic Fund.