Southend: Beecroft Art Gallery to host British fashion event

The Beecroft Art Gallery will host “Dressed for Business: The Gloria Levin Collection of Hardy Amies Couture”, from Saturday, September 20, 2025.

It will feature the personal wardrobe of Gloria Levin, who is described as “one of the most influential women in British business history”.

Detail of a Hardy Amies dress(Image: Tessa Hallmann Photography)

The exhibition highlights a collection of couture pieces by Hardy Amies, the renowned designer who dressed Queen Elizabeth II and became a leading name in British fashion.

Matt Dent, councillor responsible for business, culture, music, and tourism, said: “This exhibition is a celebration of British design, business leadership, and cultural heritage.

Hardy Amies ensemble from the collection of Southend on Sea museum (Image: Tessa Hallmann Photography)

“Gloria Levin’s story is one of ambition, style and influence, and Hardy Amies’ designs bring that story to life.

“We’re proud to host this collection in Southend and invite everyone to come and experience it.”

Spanning four decades of style, the display includes everything from sleek 1960s suits to dramatic 1980s ballgowns.

Hardy Amies ensemble(Image: Tessa Hallmann Photography)

The collection reflects four decades of British fashion and Gloria’s powerful presence in the boardroom.

Hardy Amies is best known for designing the Queen’s wardrobe for her 1950 royal tour of Canada.

Though widely recognised for his menswear, Amies also created womenswear that was elegant, comfortable, and flattering.

A Hardy Amies dress from the collection(Image: Tessa Hallmann Photography)

Gloria Levin, born in Egypt, moved to London in 1961 and quickly rose to prominence in the commodity market.

By the 1970s, she held more directorships than any other woman in Britain, serving on the boards of 29 companies.

Her carefully curated wardrobe tells the story of her professional life and her support for British design.

Detail of a label from a Hardy Amies jacket(Image: Tessa Hallmann Photography)

Visitors will see tailored suits, coats, and stunning dresses that highlight the evolution of fashion and the role of clothing in shaping a woman’s career.

Admission is free, and the gallery is open from Wednesday to Sunday, 11am to 5pm.