Abstract

Saturday 10 September 10:30AM – 11:30AM

Ages: 14+ Event type: Talk Access: Full access Cost : Free

Down the centuries, the townspeople clothed the students, as well as themselves, and Cambridge was well supplied with tailors and outfitters. But the University authorities didn’t always approve of what the students wore in their attempts to keep up with fashion. There were many complaints and regulations. Dress indicated status, and Lord Byron’s gold-trimmed academic gown was very different from Coleridge’s ‘half-left-off’ rag. Before you explore the historic buildings, come see what the historic people – students and townspeople – were wearing, and who provided it. Honor Ridout has been successively student, town employee, University employee, Blue-badge guide and an adult history tutor.