An exhibition titled Ashes to Fashion at the Ulster Museum in Belfast marks the rebirth of the museum’s lost 1976 costume and textile collection, destroyed by fire but rebuilt over 50 years through curation, acquisitions, donations, and bequests.

Public talks and workshops in partnership with Ulster University will run during the exhibition to engage students, designers, and the public beyond the gallery setting.

Highlights and new additions include items from designers such as Jonathan Anderson, Elie Saab, Sarah Burton for Alexander McQueen, Rodarte, Christopher Kane, and Kindred of Ireland, with some pieces shown publicly for the first time.

A highlight is the Lennox Quilt (1712), the only surviving original piece, measuring 6 feet square and handmade by Martha Lennox, rescued from the original collection’s destruction.

A highlight is the Lennox Quilt (6ft by 6ft, handstitched, 1712) which survived the original collection and was purchased in 1976.

Ashes to Fashion opens on February 27 at the Ulster Museum, with tickets available at ulstermuseum.org/temporary-exhibition/ashes-fashion.

The exhibition opens on February 27 at the Ulster Museum, with tickets available at ulstermuseum.org/temporary-exhibition/ashes-fashion.