You don’t have to be a fan of the detective series Miss Fisher’s Murder Mysteries to enjoy The Miss Fisher’s Costume Exhibition. It’s really terrific! This is an insightful look at the costumes, accessories, props and sets, that have made this program an international success.

‘Blood and Money‘ Silk chiffon & bugle beads & luminescent discs. Crystal beaded straps & smokey mauve silk under slip

The exhibition offers the opportunity to immerse yourself in the elegance and glamour of the period.   What makes it so special and captivating is that the outfits are shown in the settings for which they were styled.  This certainly brings the whole exhibition to life.

‘Death Defying Feats‘ Pearlescent sequins mounted on silk chiffon with silk inserts. Dove satin slip

While some of the costumes have been purpose made, the most fascinating are those pieces which are original 1920s items, collected or donated or even adapted and restored. Simply gorgeous!

‘Game, Set and Murder‘ Original 1920s lemon velvet jack. Tunic and pants winter white silk voile. 1920s original bakelite carved buckle

Costume Designer, Marion Boyce and her team have employed incredible skills and creativity to ensure the stars and cast reflect the roaring twenties period and the social activities and pursuits. The details are amazing.

‘Death at the Grand’. Olive embossed original silk bias cut, silk chiffon inserts.

‘Death at the Grand’ Antique brass buckle with antique gold chain and beads

‘As a designer you have to do an enormous amount of research, I don’t just consult pattern books, but I read a lot of literature, look at architecture and visit art galleries. You’ve got to see the beauty of the times and to be informed of the social history.   Everything – furniture, jewellery – you have to really explore an enormous number of worlds.’
Marion Boyce   Costume Designer

‘Game, Set & Murder‘
St Tropez inspired leisure wear. Patterned silk chiffon. Sunglasses: 1920s Bakelite. Accessories: Ivory bangle & Necklace

Everything old is new again – this could be here and now!

All aspects of life are represented.  The 1920s feather capulet:  ‘Its one of the most whimsical pieces’.

Pyjama: Peach pink and tangerine marabou capulet. Salmon rose silk pyjama set

Results such as these can only be achieved by dedicated people, who are passionate about what they are doing.

‘Death Defying Feats‘ Mermaid Costume – Antique luminescent sequins and gold lurex

The intricate detail of this outfit is remarkable.   The swimsuit was designed so the scales would move with the motions of the water, the fabric needed to maintain a lustre and maintain its shape.

In addition, there is a behind the scenes costume department work room showing hats in the making, together with beading and embroidery work being undertaken.  There is a video showing the work in progress which is well worth watching.

The accessories are magnificent. It’s difficult to know where to begin – the hats are utterly delightful.

‘Death & Hysteria‘ 1920s fine straw with feathers and hand died silk organza petals. Milliner: Mandy Murphy

‘Murder & the Maiden’ 1920s straw beret with feather embellishment Milliner: Rose Hudson

One room which shows the accessories has a video playing depicting the actual room and the scene which was filmed there.  It’s really clever and special.  There are evening bags, jewellery and hair pieces, belt buckles and of course, the pearl handled gun.

Each exhibit is well documented and the research notes, background history and details of the creative process make fascinating study. Do take the time to read them.  Swatches of fabric are attached to the notes, so you can actually feel and appreciate the fabrics without being tempted to touch the exhibits.  How great is that?

Other fun features of the exhibition

•  Male cast costume displays
• An inter active design room where you can try your hand at designing a 1920s glamorous gown
• Video clips
• A murder mystery game with clues around the mansion
• Costumes to try on and take a selfie if you wish

Enjoy watching Marion Boyce on YouTube by clicking here.

The Exhibition is showing at 
Rippon Lea House & Gardens
192 Hotham Street,
Elsternwick

1 May – 30 September, 2015
Open Daily 10am – 4 pm.

Tickets:
Adult $20
Concession $18
Child $10
Family $50 (2 adults and 2 children)
Discounts available for National Trust members

Following this showing the exhibition will travel to South Australia, New South Wales, Queensland and the ACT.