For more than 60 years, Joan’s wedding dress carried the memories of one special day. This year, she decided to give it a new story.
Joan, who now lives at Regis Yeronga in Queensland, first wore the gown when she married Ron in Auckland, New Zealand, on 4 February 1964. Designed and made by Vinka Lukas, the dress remained with Joan for the decades that followed.
When the opportunity arose to contribute to Eco Fashion Week, Joan donated the gown to be transformed into something new.
From wedding dress to runway
Lifestyle employee Sonam, with the help of other residents, took on the transformation, working with Joan’s original dress and adding new fabric to create a piece for the runway.
For Joan, the project meant an important part of her past could become part of something new rather than remaining tucked away.
She was excited to see the finished design and watch Sonam wear her dress on the runway.
“I was so happy to see the dress being used again. It brought back lovely memories of our wedding day.”
Giving something meaningful a new life
The dress was one of the creations featured as residents and employees from homes across Brisbane took part in Eco Fashion Week, exploring how existing textiles can be reused and reimagined.
But Joan’s contribution carried its own history.
A dress made for one of the most significant days of her life had been kept for around six decades. By choosing to share it, Joan gave someone else the opportunity to be creative with it and gave the dress a completely different purpose.
More than 60 years after Joan first stepped out in her wedding gown, it had its moment in the spotlight once again.
This time, with a new story to tell.
