Leopard has cycled through fashion so many times, stylists now often call it a 'neutral'. It works with almost anything, much like black or denim. It regularly reappears on runways (Saint Laurent, Dolce & Gabbana and others return to it often) and remains a wardrobe staple in everything from coats to accessories. What's interesting is…
read moreThis satin damask Kimono is from the Edo period, 17-19th century. The design is exquisite - depicting flowing water and embroidered Kerria flowers. Absolutely stunning and a credit to fabric preservation. At Irenes we respect fibres and fabrics that are used to create clothing. It's an honour to preserve your wardrobe.
read moreWe're always connecting with peers in the industry from far and wide. I recently hosted Sankosha Technologies on a recent visit from Tokyo. We discussed further opportunities to collaborate and share information - more on that very soon! .
read moreA customer acquired this vintage wool Louis Feraud tailored jacket. She always dry cleans vintage items before adding them to her wardrobe. As part of our thorough service at Irene’s, we inspect all items for stains and damage upon receipt. We noticed the front button was loose and at risk of becoming detached. After cleaning,…
read moreBalenciaga curated an exclusive exhibition in its new Sydney store and called it “The Woman Behind the Dress’. Showcasing archival pieces worn by famous women in history. Legendary actress Marlene Dietrich wore this stunning rustic wild silk cream suit. Created in the summer of 1962, the self-fabric belted jacket gives hints of safari, kimono and…
read moreTo celebrate the opening of its store in Sydney, Balenciaga has curated an exclusive in-store exhibition called ‘The Woman Behind The Dress’. It features special archival pieces by Cristóbal Balenciaga like this stunning black guipure lace evening jacket which is fastened at the front with two silk bows. Underneath is a pink satin bustier gown…
read moreSilk satin feels soft to the touch but is remarkably durable due to long strong interwoven fibres. Despite its inherent strength, we still recommend treading lightly and water proofing to protect silk satin covered shoes from errant liquid. We have an assortment of techniques to help restore scuffs and marks, though not all can be…
read moreThere is lots to consider when presented with runway or vintage items like this Saint Laurent jacket. Before we commence treatment, we assess its age, structure, buttons, colour and then the stains. Rive Gauche was YSL’s first ready-to-wear range launched in 1966 (by all accounts, a roaring success). This cotton safari jacket has definitely stood…
read moreThis stunning Gucci silk multicolour women’s neck bow is decorated with GG logo pattern and printed gold-tone bee. Made in Italy, it made me wonder about the significance of the bees. The bee symbol on Gucci represents power, community, and loyalty. The bee motif serves as a reminder of this commitment to its customers and…
read moreAustralian-born Hollywood costume designer Orry-Kelly designed this silk and sequin dress for Marilyn Monroe in Some Like It Hot. Considered racy in 1959, the heart shaped embroidery on the derriere - and other sequins - were set in skin-tone silk to give an impression of nudity. Apparently the censors were not impressed but the film…
read more
