Pink Silk Wedding Dress and Belt
AssociatedAssociated with
Peggy Walker
(Mintlaw, Aberdeenshire, Scotland, 1924 - 2016)
Date1930s
Object NameDress
Mediumsilk
ClassificationsFashion and Dress
DimensionsChest x Waist x Length x Back Length x Bust x Circumference x Hips: 370 × 340 × 1380 × 2000 × 340 × 2700 × 400mm
AcquisitionThe Peggy Walker Gift, 2002.
LocationView by Appointment - Aberdeen Treasure Hub
Object numberABDMS038471
About MeThis soft pink, figure hugging, full-length dress from the 1930s incorporates many of the features seen in Wallis Simpson’s bridal wear. They share a fluid, streamlined cut, high neck, gathered bodice and deep waistband. Wallis Simpson was, at the time of her wedding to the abdicated King Edward VIII, probably one of the most well-known and fashionable ladies of the day. Always immaculately dressed, her style echoed that of the silver screen and Hollywood's most glamorous actresses.
The donor, Peggy Walker, spent her early childhood in the Aberdeenshire countryside until her family moved into central Aberdeen. She taught dressmaking and costume design at the Northern College of Education in Aberdeen. She also made costumes for student shows in her role as wardrobe mistress in the drama department. She was an expert on historical costume and amassed a large collection that was donated to Aberdeen Art Gallery & Museums as the Peggy Walker Gift.
