The Art Deco exhibition opened last night at the National Gallery of Victoria. A crowd of Melbourne art scenesters filled the enormous atrium to capacity swilling complimentary champas and listening to Glen Miller classics.

In true Melbourne style, the deco theme was whole-heartedly embraced and the outfits were lavish. Great-grandmothers flapper dresses were borrowed and shipped down from Canberra. Furs were dragged out of usually PC closets and pearls were poked in gentlemen’s ears. Well, just Peter Jago’s fabulous ears really.

The show which we all got to preview, is a spectacular explosion of divine frocks, jewels, hats and more. On display are amazing pieces of couture like the heavily beaded Chinoisserie gown at the entrance as well as ancient Egyptian pieces that influenced the period.

Photos by Steve Lightfoot

Art Deco at the NGV
Opens: June 28th
Exhibition fees apply: Adult $22 / Concession $18 / Family $60 / NGV Members $16 / NGV Members Family $40.
Details: www.ngv.vic.gov.au