Fashion Museum Bath has unveiled Fashion Unpacked, an innovative mini museum designed to take fashion heritage out of the archives and into the heart of the community.
With initial support from The National Lottery Heritage Fund and the West of England Mayoral Combined Authority, the project will launch at Bath Central Library on Tuesday 25 November, from 10am to 1pm. Visitors will be able to explore historic objects up close and take part in creative, hands-on activities.
Fashion Unpacked – affectionately known as the Trunk – is a striking, mobile resource that promises to spark curiosity and conversation. Inside, housed in specially designed cases, visitors will discover an early 18th century embroidered pocket, a Regency embroidery sampler and a selection of 19th century hairwork jewellery.
It is the first time such rare treasures from the museum’s collection have been taken out into the community, offering close-up insights into style, identity and craftsmanship across the centuries.
Designed by illustrator Lesley Barnes and furniture maker William Warren, the Trunk combines bold design with interactive experiences, inviting people of all ages to discover the stories behind fashion in imaginative and creative ways.
Fashion Unpacked is an important step in Fashion Museum Bath’s journey to create the UK’s leading museum dedicated to the transformative power of fashion, set to open in the Grade II listed Old Post Office in the heart of Bath. While the museum undergoes its transformation, the collection remains accessible through projects like this, helping to keep heritage alive and relevant during the transition.
The project will also play a role in shaping the future museum by gathering ideas and feedback from the communities it visits.
The launch at Bath Central Library is the first in a series of pop-up sessions across Bath & North East Somerset. As well as seeing collection pieces, participants can create bookmarks and embroidery inspired by historic textiles, explore fashion history through playful activities and reflect on personal stories of style and sentiment. Fashion Unpacked aims to build lasting connections and inspire ongoing participation in the museum’s journey to re-opening.
Jo Mawdsley, Learning & Engagement Lead at Fashion Museum Bath, said, “We want people to feel part of the museum’s future. Fashion Unpacked is designed to start conversations, inspire creativity and gather ideas that will help shape our new museum. It’s a chance for everyone to engage with fashion in a fun, hands-on way and explore a range of skills.”
Join Fashion Museum Bath at Bath Central Library on Tuesday 25 November, any time from 10am to 1pm, and help unpack the stories of fashion together.
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