AUSTRALIAN GOWN OF THE YEAR 1995. IMAGINATION

In 1995, Bateman Original Designs entered Imagination in the Australian Gown Of The Year.

Designed by Sheila Bateman, Imagination was entered in Section 9, “Gown Of The Year”, sponsored by Bateman Original Designs and worn by model Stephanie Randall. The gown was made in pink Altex Australian-made non-crushable polyester, with the fabric recorded as made in Melbourne.

Imagination was designed for movement, performance and stage presence. The bodice was fully hand beaded and sequined, with a built-in structure and a full skirt finished with ostrich feather trim at the hem. The petticoat and skirt were constructed to allow movement on the floor, so the gown could be danced in without losing its shape.

The archive images include the original 1995 Australian Gown Of The Year program cover, the official Section 9 program listing, the entry pass, judges sheet, script form submitted for entry, photographs of Stephanie Randall at Chaucer’s foyer on judging day, and later photographs of Helen Bateman-Greville wearing Imagination.