The costume was designed by Angus Strathie who graduated from the National Institute of Dramatic Art in 1988. He has since worked with the Canberra Theatre Company and the Australian Opera. His designs for 'Strictly Ballroom' are based on the costumes worn by real competitive ballroom dancers.

The suit was made by Christopher Essex in Australia and the shoes by Sugar Shoes in Taiwan.

Worn by Kris McQuade in the M & A Film Corporation production of the film 'Strictly Ballroom', while playing the part of Charm Leachman.

Film costume, 'Strictly Ballroom', suit and shoes, women's, silk/glitter/polyester/plastic, M&A Film Corporation Pty Ltd/Christopher Essex, Sydney, Australia, 1991.
Black silk crepe top, fully lined with black polyester fabric. Fabric is decorated with silver glitter glued on in a floral design. Top has a sweetheart neckline, large shoulder pads and a short peplum gathered onto the waist. Centre back zipper fastening and a small metal hook and thread work eye.
Short tight fitting skirt in same fabric. Centre back vent and centre back zipper fastening with small metal hook and thread work eye.
Black polyester tie sash.
A pair of black fabric covered court shoes with stiletto heels. At the back seam there is a large black bow with six small diamantes at the centre of each bow.

Designer: Strathie, Angus; Sydney

Maker: M & A Film Corporation; Sydney; 1991


User: M & A Film Corporation; Sydney

User: McQuade, Kris; Sydney

Top: fabric label 'CHRISTOPHER ESSEX', small fabric label 'DRY CLEAN/ONLY A/WARM IRON'. Shoes: stamped on innersole '8/SUGAR SHOES', stamped on soles 'ALL MAN MADE MATERIAL/MADE IN TAIWAN/8'.

92/1924