Marks & Spencer turns back the clock for one-off fashion showcase

As countless trends came and went over the swinging sixties, the psychedelic seventies and the electric eighties, Marks and Spencer has remained a constant presence on high streets.

To celebrate its longevity in the fickle world of fashion, the company, which started out on a stall at Kirkgate Market in Leeds in 1884, has delved into its archives to treat men and women across Yorkshire to the ultimate nostalgia trip in a one-off event.

Managers at the retailer have linked up with the University of Leeds for an exhibition which uses a collection of clothing, multimedia and music.

“These three decades are key to the development of technology, fashion and pop culture,” said Helen Chatterton, education and outreach officer at the company archive.

“So we are thrilled that we can use the resources here at the archive to transport visitors to these iconic decades.”

Visitors are being encouraged to rummage through their wardrobes for garments from their favourite era and don fancy dress for the occasion and the firm, which now brands itself M&S, is offering a £50 voucher to the best-dressed.

Along with a display of menswear, womenswear and children’s fashions spanning 30 years, the event this weekend will feature a disco dance featuring songs from The Beatles to the Bay City Rollers.

Make-up artists and hair stylists will also be offering free makeovers to give exhibition-goers an authentic look.

Ms Chatterton added: “We will be showcasing a mixture of fashion adverts, in-store 
display photography and product images from 70,000 items in our archive.”

The Step Back in Time event is on Saturday at the University of Leeds from 11am until 3pm.

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