TALK: Meet Enid Gilchrist 14 April 2026 7.30 p.m.

Posted on Thursday, 9th April 2026 by Janine Rizzetti

Please join us at 7.30 on Tuesday 14th April 2026 at the Ivanhoe Uniting Church Community Centre, Seddon St Ivanhoe, as curator and historian Dr Annette Shiell introduces us to Melbourne fashion and homewares designer and Heidelberg local, Enid Gilchrist OAM

Enid Gilchrist OAM shaped Australian home dressmaking from the 1940s to the 1970s. Her patterns appeared weekly in The Argus and later New Idea, and she published 66 pattern magazines that sold millions of copies locally and overseas. A pioneer of practical and sustainable fashion, Enid empowered home dressmakers through simple drafting methods, clear instructions and affordable, durable designs. As a working mother, she championed adaptable clothing, reuse and DIY creativity.

Enmeshed in her Heidelberg community, she employed neighbours and family, used local children as models, and contributed to public service and charity, including work with the Infant Welfare Division and the Red Cross.

Our speaker, Dr Annette Shiell is a curator, historian and educator specialising in arts and heritage, with a focus on collections and overlooked histories. All welcome.