Worn To Be Wild Exhibition

Designed and created by costume maker and textile artist Kate Plumtree, Worn to be Wild is a visual spectacle: 17 theatrical costumes, with head dresses and accessories, inspired by British wild birds and mammals, many of which have links to the Tullie House Natural History collection.

This touring exhibition combines the natural world with the evolution of period dress from medieval to the present day. Each costume represents an individual species and a specific era of fashion. As part of the process, Kate researched animal habitats, behaviour and physical characteristics.

This helped determine which period style would best suit each species, as well as providing locations and concepts for the stunning photographs that accompany the exhibition. Also on display are Kate’s design and construction portfolios, tactile fabric samples and costumes to try on for both children and adults.