A stunning Victorian evening dress with a deadly secret will be the focus of Whanganui Regional Museum’s next Outfit of the Month fashion talk on Friday 3 July.

The talk will explore a rare mid-19^th century silk evening dress revealing the darker side of Victorian style. The dress is hand-sewn and richly detailed, with three flounced skirt layers trimmed with lace, puff sleeves, and a low off-the-shoulder neckline. Its voluminous skirt would likely have been worn over multiple petticoats and an early crinoline – a petticoat stiffened with horsehair rather than the metal cage variety that came about later.

One of the most intriguing aspects of the garment is its vivid green foliage pattern, which is believed to have been coloured using arsenic-based dye. Such dyes were widely used during the Victorian period, despite growing concerns about their toxicity.

“The dress is a beautiful example of Victorian craftsmanship and global textile traditions, but it also tells a fascinating story about the hidden risks behind fashionable appearance,” says Trish Nugent-Lyne, Pou Ārahi / Acting Director and Pou Tiaki / Collections & Curatorial Lead at Whanganui Regional Museum.

“Visitors are often surprised to learn that some of the most desirable colours in Victorian clothing were achieved using highly toxic substances. This garment allows us to explore both the artistry and the realities of fashion history.”

The silk fabric itself showcases the ancient textile technique known as ikat, created by resist-dyeing threads before weaving. Originating thousands of years ago in Central Asia and India, the technique spread across the world through historic trade networks, including the Silk Road, and is known for its distinctive softly blurred patterns.

The dress was donated to the Museum in 1984 by Mrs Mollie Hutchison and has recently undergone careful conservation treatment by Wellington-based textile conservator, Rachael Collinge. Due to its age and delicate condition, specialist conservation work was required to stabilise and preserve the garment. However, the stresses involved in mounting historic textiles mean this may be the final time the dress can be safely displayed on a mannequin. Visitors are encouraged to take the opportunity to view this remarkable survivor of Victorian fashion during what may be its final ‘swan song.’

The Outfit of the Month talk will take place at 12.15pm on Friday 3^rd July at Whanganui Regional Museum. The dress will remain on display throughout July.

The talk will be presented by Trish Nugent-Lyne, Pou Ārahi/Acting Director at Whanganui Regional Museum.

Admission is free. Koha donations are always appreciated.