Runway

As women had been expected to ride side-saddle to maintain their grace and dignity (since the middle ages), finally in the mid 19th century, they begin to break free from this paradoxical association. One’s dignity, grace, right to vote, own property and control their own wealth are just a few areas of focus during this first women’s suffrage — across the US and UK there was much harmony in this effort. What a non sequitur, these past mindsets…and sadly, current ones too. Are we not all afforded the choice over our own bodies? Grace and all rights are afforded at birth, for all human-kind.

Using vintage textiles and leathers from the designer’s archives, this show seeks to show a rebirth of dignity. Pieces depict both past constraint and beginning freedom, reimagination and rebirth. Vive La Femme !

Here, Dr Amy Boyington, Historian, provides a concise understanding of expectations for the woman through the lens of horse riding. See more of her work at: https://amyboyington.co.uk/