Silk used as money
A history of silk as currency We’ve always known that silk is a multifaceted fabric. From high quality clothes to luxurious home furnishings, silk is not only utterly soft but also extremely versatile; an ideal […]
History & Science
The history and evolution of skirts
From Maxis to Minis and every skirt in-between If there is one type of clothing that has had a rich history through the ages, it is most definitely the skirt. From the straw-woven skirt dating […]
Dior Exhibition
Patra unravel Dior at the V&A If there is one designer that helped shape fashion in the 20th century, it is Christian Dior. He re-invented the female silhouette, while his “New Look” (a term coined […]
Sustainable living
Ideas and tips for a more environmentally friendly lifestyle There is a lot of information out there about the need for sustainability and the different eco-friendly methods we should adopt. Living sustainably can seem expensive […]
What is Noil Silk?
The matt silk that is such a great fabric for womenswear At Patra, we pride ourselves on our silk knowledge. We select the purest, softest types of silk and thoroughly research the manufacturing process to […]
The Iconic Pencil Skirt and Its Origins
From Dior to Joan Collins: The People that made the Pencil Skirt famous time after time It is probably the most dependable skirt of all and famed for its ability to show off your figure. […]
The history, origins and benefits of cashmere
All your cashmere questions answered Cashmere is, rightly, considered the jewel in the crown of fabrics. It is the most precious and luxurious of fabrics, with a history spanning over centuries and involving some of […]
Natural Fabrics and the “Fashioned from Nature” Exhibition at the V&A
Patra highlights the importance of natural fabrics and the relationship between nature and fashion The link between fashion and nature is intrinsic and long-standing. For centuries we have been using natural resources, everything from feathers […]
Royal Wedding Dresses History
The design detail and craftsmanship behind some of the most famous wedding dresses in history For many young girls, brought up with stories of princesses and fairy tales, a dream wedding dress holds a special […]
From pretty camis to thermal long johns: Exploring the origins of underwear
A brief history of underwear and the natural fabrics that make a perfect set of smalls Great underwear really makes a big difference, like dependable friends that you can always rely on. Made of natural […]