Date/Time
04/08/2026 – 5:30 pm – 8:00 pm
Location
Cellos Grand Ballroom
Information
Step back into the glamour and sophistication of the 1950s with an evening celebrating one of the most stylish decades in fashion history.
Presented in partnership with The Cavalcade of History & Fashion, The Fabulous Fifties explores the rise of the cocktail dress and the social traditions that defined post-war entertaining. As prosperity returned and social calendars filled with cocktail parties and elegant gatherings, a new style emerged – less formal than an evening gown, yet every bit as glamorous.
Discover a captivating collection of authentic 1950s cocktail dresses and accessories as history is brought to life through fashion, storytelling and expert commentary. From full skirts and nipped waists to exquisite fabrics and attention to detail, these garments capture the optimism, elegance and femininity of the era.
We’re delighted to welcome former Miss Australia and charity ambassador Emily Egan as our guest host for the evening. Emily will join The Cavalcade of History & Fashion in guiding guests through an elegant evening celebrating the glamour of the 1950s.
We’re also pleased to welcome award winning distillery and bar Bondi Liquor Co., who will be showcasing their products and have some special surprises in store for guests on the evening.
A wonderful evening for those with an interest in fashion, history, design or simply a unique social experience in the heart of Sydney.
- A presentation by The Cavalcade of History & Fashion
- A showcase of authentic 1950s cocktail dresses and accessories
- Historical insights and storytelling
- Opportunity to view garments up close
- 1950s styled cocktails and ‘hors d’oeuvres’
Who Should Attend
✦ Lovers of fashion and design
✦ History enthusiasts
✦ Sydney locals and visitors seeking a unique experience
✦ Anyone looking for a refined evening in the city
Venue: Cellos Grand Dining Room, Castlereagh Boutique Hotel
Time: 5.30pm – 8.00pm
Tickets: $89 per person + booking fee
Fashion show starts at 5.45pm for approx. 40 mins followed by 1950s styled cocktails and ‘hors d’oeuvres’
About The Calvacade of History and Fashion
In 1960 a group of women from Sydney, Australia, put on a fashion parade to raise funds for their local charity. The last gown to be paraded was an historic wedding gown of 1872 worn by Emily Tucker. Immediately people came and offered vintage gowns and accessories belonging to their families and so the collection began. Not only were the items carefully catalogued, but also the history of the wearer was retained giving an outstanding record of the social history of Australian women and their families. These items were used by the Cavalcade volunteers for many years in parades to raise money for a wide variety of charities.
Today the collection of more than 18,000 items continues to grow and is still used by Cavalcade volunteers to raise funds for charities as well as for community events, education and enjoyment. This is done through a “Museum without Walls” philosophy by bringing themed presentations, displays and exhibitions to many people.
WE PRACTISE THE RESPONSIBLE SERVICE OF ALCOHOL



