Historical information

The Fashion & Design collection of the Kew Historical Society includes examples of women’s, men’s, children’s and infants’ clothing from the 18th, 19th and 20th centuries. Items in the collection were largely produced for, or purchased by women in Melbourne, and includes examples of outerwear, protective wear, nightwear, underwear and costume accessories.This 'dance frock' by Park Avenue Gowns is one of a number of garments in the collection by this designer.

Physical description

Metallic thread silk cocktail dress and wrap by Park Avenue Gowns, 1960. Virtually identical dresses by the designer were featured in the Australian Women's Weekly in 1960, described as 'dance frocks', to which the wide flairing skirt would be well suited.

Inscriptions & markings

Label : "Park Avenue Gowns"