The Way We Wore is a three-part documentary series that delves into the evolution and significance of Australian fashion, hosted by actress and comedian Celeste Barber. Premiering on November 21, 2023, on ABC TV and ABC iview, the series offers a vibrant exploration of how fashion reflects and influences Australia’s cultural and social history.
In the first episode, Barber examines the transformation of fashion media, tracing its journey from early silent cinema advertisements to contemporary influencers. This segment highlights how media and advertising have profoundly shaped public perception and personal identity through fashion over the decades.
The second episode focuses on fashion as a vehicle for social change. Barber uncovers stories of Australia’s fashion pioneers who challenged societal norms and used clothing to push for social progress, giving marginalized communities a platform to express their identities.
The final episode addresses the economic impact of the fashion industry in Australia. Despite generating more income than the beer and wine industries and employing more people than mining, fashion is often dismissed as frivolous. Barber investigates this paradox, tracing the industry’s growth from early bespoke seamstresses to its current status as a multi-billion-dollar enterprise.
Directed by Nel Minchin, the series features rich archival material and personal interviews with prominent figures in the Australian fashion scene, including designers Collette Dinnigan, Alex Perry, Catherine Martin, Akira Isogawa, Camilla Franks, and Paul McCann. Vogue Editorial Director Edwina McCann, model Charlee Fraser, and actor-writer Nakkiah Lui also share their insights, offering a comprehensive look into the industry’s inner workings.
Barber’s engaging and relatable approach provides viewers with an intimate understanding of how fashion serves as a mirror to Australia’s evolving identity, making “The Way We Wore” a compelling watch for anyone interested in the intersections of culture, history, and style.