Gardens, Bicycles and Bloomers: Dress Reform and Women's Freedom - talk

Gardens, Bicycles and Bloomers: Dress Reform and Women's Freedom

Join us at Te Whare Waiutuutu Kate Sheppard House for an engaging exploration of the Dress Reform Movement during the Christchurch Heritage Festival.

Through a presentation by Helen Osborne and a display of historical garments, discover how practical clothing transformed women's ability to garden, cycle, work, and participate more freely in public life. From cumbersome skirts and corsets to more practical attire, explore how dress reform opened new possibilities for recreation, horticulture, health, and independence, while supporting wider movements for social change.

Following the talk, guests will enjoy a traditional Devonshire morning tea in the beautiful surroundings and garden.  Guests are also welcome to explore the New Zealand Portrait Gallery’s current exhibition Self Portrait: Jo Torr and gift shop.

A collaborative Heritage Festival event presented by the Canterbury Horticultural Society and Te Whare Waiutuutu Kate Sheppard House.

Heritage Festival

We are pleased to offer this event during the Christchurch Heritage Festival 2026, Friday 16 to Monday 26 October (Labour Day) 2026.

Connections - The theme this year developed from anniversaries relating to the expansion of infrastructure and communications in the city of Ōtautahi-Christchurch and the Waitaha-Canterbury region, the change and development brought about by wider connections.

The place we live in continues to change and the connections we make shape our future. Through sharing our stories, we better understand our environment, the landscape, the people and the place.

Date: Saturday 24 October 10am - 12pm

Te Whare Waiutuutu Kate Sheppard House

Price: $45 Members ($55 Non-Members)or bundle with a CHS Membership for $105

A CHS Membership can save you up to 30% off workshops and courses AND provides great discounts at local retailers as well as FREE attendance at our Monthly Meeting, Garden Life.