The owner of a nationally significant collection of vintage and antique clothing is fundraising to open a fashion museum in Great Malvern.

Fashion Museum Malvern will offer residents, visitors and fashion enthusiasts the opportunity to be immersed in the stories that antique and vintage clothing, accessories and collectables have to tell.

As well as conserving and displaying this brilliant collection, the museum is planning to host exhibitions, talks and workshops throughout the year.

The museum aims to be the most comprehensive fashion research library outside of the Victoria and Albert Museum (V&A) in London and Bath Fashion Museum. The space will be an open and welcoming destination for fashion and history enthusiasts, and those looking to learn more, to meet likeminded people, reminisce and share stories.

To make this happen, the museum is fundraising through Spacehive and the deadline of 31 March 2025 is fast approaching.

Malvern Hills District Council has already pledged its support through its Connected Communities Fund. The project has already raised over 60 per cent of its target but needs an extra push to hit its target and to access the council's pledge.

Having worked with residents and charity shops, owner Romy Lincoln-Trapnell has built up an impressive collection of pieces that preserve the history of the fashion houses of Malvern – past and present.

At the heart of the museum will be their volunteer programme, allowing people of all ages, genders, backgrounds and abilities to access this history and get involved with the museum.

Romy Lincoln-Trapnell, Owner of the collection, said: “Opening the Fashion Museum here in Malvern is a long-held dream of mine and to see it coming to fruition is just wonderful. Please do support our community initiative. Every donation, however big or small, will help us greatly.”

Cllr Douglas Godwin, Portfolio Holder for Economy and Tourism at Malvern Hills District Council, said: “This is an excellent project to bring the history of Malvern to life through fashion with former local collections from Warwick House, Brays as well as Clifton Hill Vintage - a great addition for the town for both visitors and residents wanting to explore the areas historic connections. If you think that these precious pieces of history are worth preserving, then please consider donating or sharing this cause if you are unable to donate.” 

Visit www.spacehive.com/fashionmuseumandresearchlibrary for more information and to donate.

ENDS

Pictured: Some pieces from the collection, including a red and black corset originally from Malvern's Warwick House.