Now Open: Super 70s

“There are no rules in the fashion game now.” This was the statement Vogue made at the beginning of the 70s, where clashing prints, bell-bottom jeans and platform shoes stalked the sidewalks. Travel back in time to witness 70s fashion in all its garish glory at the Super 70s exhibition housed at none other than the majestic Rippon Lea Estate.

The exhibition features exquisite 70s garments and accessories from the National Trust’s Costume Collection, as well as rare collection items by Australian design icons including Prue Acton, Sally Browne, Clarence Chai and The House of Merivale.

Exhibition producer Elizabeth Anya-Petrivna used the opportunity to dig out her favourite pieces from the archives. “The items we’ve selected for the exhibition reflect a time of dynamic experimentation, when many rules were broken, and individual self-expression was the style. The exhibition will launch visitors back to an era of glossy spandex and slinky polyester, and will feature some interactive experiences for the whole family to enjoy.”

Milk Bar Mag ventured onto the historic grounds one grey Friday morning. From the outside, Rippon Lea Estate is breathtakingly beautiful as ever. But step inside the entrance and you’ll be met by metallic silver streamers and decadent purple curtains. Part the way and continue on to discover a house transformed. Lavish wallpaper is illuminated by hot pink spotlights. Stately rooms now feature shag rugs and macramé wall hangings. Regal couches have been replaced by … beanbags.

Each room is a heady visual mix of satin, patterns and denim. Ideals of outer space and technology at the time inspired the use of gleaming metallic fabrics in the form of thigh-split dresses and skin-tight spandex pants. Technically complex frilled flounces grace the shoulders and hems of pastel dresses, and detailed embroidery adorns a cotton dress like a hippy work of art. All in all, 70s fashion seems, well, comfy. Silhouettes are loose and sleeves are wide. “The lines between formal and informal began to be eroded, with day wear able to be worn as evening wear and denim and casual wear took on a whole new meaning,” says Anya-Petrivna.

While there is no shortage of colour, there is a shortage of men’s attire. The collection is overwhelmingly biased toward female fashion, a touch disappointing considering unisex styling was key part of the culture. Nevertheless, it was intriguing to see fashion cycles in effect – 70s fashion is currently trending. This writer for one could definitely see herself in a delicate boho frock, complete with flower crown, of course, to completely fulfil the true romantic aesthetic. While my companion couldn’t go past the luxe sequinned art deco number, artfully draped on a mannequin sprawled atop a baby grand.

I’ll leave you with this vision – one I hope never returns – the Hot Pants Suit, worn as a bride’s ‘going-away’ outfit. Super 70s is running until Sunday, 4 November, don’t miss out!

Super 70s
Rippon Lea House and Garden, 192 Hotham Street, Elsternwick
Till Sunday, 4 November 2018
ripponleaestate.com.au/event/super-70s