1949 Hong Kong, Linen Chest, fashion show at Eucliff

Hi Nona,

Thanks for posting the photo of this glamorous group. Are you able to identify any of these ladies? It'll be good to add any names we can.

Regards, David

Thanks Nona! I've added in links to your mother and Aunt.

The charity ball was written up on page three of the following day's China Mail. Unfortunately the reporter goes into great detail about the clothes but says nothing about the ladies:

CHARITY BALL AT EUCLIFF

(By JANET MARTIN)

A special feature of last night's Charity Ball at Eucliff was the Fashion Parade organised by The Linen Chest.

Model evening gowns from America followed a flower pattern, enhanced by lovely corsages and sprays of the most unbelievably natural flowers.

The most outstanding ensemble displayed, however, was a local product, designed and made in Hong Kong. This is a lounging outfit consisting of black satin pyjamas with wide legs caught into ankle-bands, Turkish style: blouse with full bishop sleeves slashed down the sides; wide cummerbund of bright green satin. A mandarin jacket in gold tribute silk completes a very striking effect.

Among the evening gowns, my first choice was the lovely “Scarlet Hibiscus" in white silk jersey, draped on Grecian lines, with the new pannier panels at the sides and worn with a dramatic full length cloak of'scarlet chiffon.

Then "Mimosa", one of Linen Chest's own creations, in stiff, gold Pekin gauze trimmed with leaves of rich brown velvet. This model features the dipping hemline, knee length in front, ankle length at the back.

Arresting Model

“Green Orchid" is an arresting model in irridescent taffeta, the latest deep olive green, overchecked in cream and grey. Shirred bands outline the top of the strapless bodice and hipline, shirred bustle at the back. A gleaming stole of shot gauze folds stiffly around the shoulders.

"Black Narcissus" is a sleek black crepe dinner gown with narrow slit and a double cascade of black taffeta enclosing masses of brilliant flowers.

“Primrose’’ is a charming debutante gown in palest green satin, full skirted, with bouffant cascade back, caught with roses.

“Californian Poppy" in stiff moire, features the leftward movement with slanted bodice neckline finished with a scallopped flounce and skirt caught up at the left side to reveal a ruffled petticoat of pale peach taffeta.

“Emerald Begonia” is a sophisticated dinner gown in fine crepe with draped shoulders, deep V neckline and an unusual collar effect consisting of a wide band of brilliants.

Hooped Skirt

"Green Lily”, a strapless model in emerald green taffeta has a romantic hooped skirt with apron effect caught at the back with a stiff bow. Pink orchids are worn in the hair. 

“Forget-Me-Not”, in pale blue taffeta, is swathed in stiff folds around the shoulders and has a full-flared skirt of four panels with pannier effect at the hips and clusters of deep red roses at the waist.

Finally, two luxurious housecoats in rich Chinese silk, full skirted, with wide wide sleeves.

Among the large crowd were the Governor, Sir Alexander Grantham, and Lady Grantham.

Side shows included a treasure hunt, lucky numbers, hoop-la, cocoa nut shies and man-in-the-moon.

Other items were a diving display and a piano solo by little Miss Mimi Chow.

Music for dancing was provided by Fred Carpio and his Orchestra.

The function was organised by the women's International Club in aid of Services Club funds