We felt a little frisson of excitement reading a comment on a global costume page recently — because if that writer were visiting from April 2026, they’d absolutely love what we’re about to reveal…
For Inside Out, our new costume exhibition for 2026, these garments will quite literally be turned inside out, exposing the hidden mechanics and ingenious techniques used by accomplished Victorian seamstresses to create the structure, fit and drama of 19th-century dress. Boning, seams, ties, linings — all the clever details usually kept out of sight. You don’t need to be a sewer, seamstress, tailor or even a sewist (yes, we looked that one up!) to be captivated. This is a rare and fascinating glimpse into extraordinary skill and craftsmanship — the kind that quietly held everything together.
📅 Opens 31 March 2026. Free entry. Access-friendly.
📍 Folk and Costume Museum, Saumarez Park
More soon — we can’t wait to share what’s normally hidden – behind the seams one might say ...