Adelaide auctioneer Small and Whitfield is set to present a stunning collection this December that is a fashion lover’s dream come true: The Rosemary Moore Collection. This special auction will feature vintage designer clothing, jewellery, and accessories from the estate of the late Dr. Rosemary Moore (1936–2024).
This is a rare opportunity to explore the sensational wardrobe of Dr. Rosemary Moore – a woman whose life as a scholar, feminist, bon vivant, and passionate fashion lover is beautifully reflected in every piece she collected. With a keen eye for quality, and an impeccable sense of style, Dr. Moore curated her wardrobe with the same elegance and sophistication she brought to all aspects of her life.
Dr. Moore was a respected academic and pioneer in feminist literary studies, known for her intellect and love of the arts. A member of the Queen Adelaide Club since 1977, Dr. Moore was admired not only for her scholarly work, but also for her taste in fashion. A true woman of the world, her wardrobe is a collection of pieces from some of the most famous designers globally.
Dr. Moore and her husband, Robin, travelled throughout Europe, North America, and Asia, collecting beautiful pieces from top fashion houses like Gucci, Dior, Hermes, and Yves Saint Laurent. Some standout items from her collection include a golden brocade evening gown, a vintage Gucci ‘Hollywood’ bomber jacket, a selection of silk jackets, formal wear, and racewear.
The auction of her fashion will take place on Monday December 16th at Small and Whitfield’s Parkside premises, with both in-person and online bidding available. The collection is a true treasure trove of vintage designer fashion, with hundreds of pieces of clothing and accessories from top international and Australian designers. The auction will also include pieces of fine vintage jewellery, perfect for anyone looking to add a statement piece to their wardrobe.
Featured designers represented in the auction include:
International:
- Gucci
- Dior
- Valentino
- Yves Saint Laurent
- Lanvin
- Dolce & Gabbana
- Escada
- Hermes
- Fendi
- Ferragamo
- Harrods
- Charles Jourdan
- Max Mara
- DKNY
Australian:
- George Gross
- Anthea Crawford
- Liz Davenport
- The Ark
- Perri Cutten
- Simona
“This is more than just an auction. It’s a celebration of style, sophistication, and the legacy of an extraordinary woman,” Peter Almond, spokesperson for Small and Whitfield, says. “Every piece tells a story, reflecting Dr. Moore’s elegance, wit, and adventurous spirit.”
An auction preview will be held at Small and Whitfield on Saturday December 14th starting at 9am, giving people the chance to view the collection in person. The official auction will begin on Monday December 16th at 5pm, with champagne for those attending in person. Live online bidding will also be available for those who can’t attend.
This auction is the first of several planned events featuring items from Dr. Moore’s collections, including more clothing auctions and a selection of rare books and cookbooks.
If you love fashion, this is truly a once-in-a-lifetime event not to be missed: a world of vintage glam and the fabulous legacy of Dr. Rosemary Moore.
What: The Rosemary Moore Collection
When: Auction preview on Saturday December 14th from 9am
Official auction will begin on Monday December 16th at 5pm
Where: Small and Whitfield: 1 Unley Road, Parkside
To preview the collection online or register to bid, visit Small and Whitfield’s website here.
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