Our Story
The Museum of Fashion Malvern was founded by Romy Trapnell-Lincoln in May 2025.
Romy’s path into vintage fashion began in Bristol where she took over ownership of a vintage shop and large collection of clothing. When she made the move to Malvern she brought her wonderful collection with her, opening Clifton Hill Vintage in North Malvern, then in Barnards green.
Alongside selling her vintage clothing and haberdashery, she also put on displays such as the history of wedding dresses and started her very own button club for those who loved buttons as much as her.
It was always Romy’s dream to one day have a Museum telling the story of Malvern’s compelling fashion history and the impact fashion has on culture today. After tirelessly crowding she secured match funding from the council and the people of Malvern to open a fashion museum.
Unfortunately Romy passed away 1 month after the museum opened on the 3rd of October 2025. But the team she put together has kept the museum open and hope to keep Romy’s dream alive.
Our Collection
We have received over 70 donations from the local community. This includes a 1900s cape once worn by the famous Drag King Vesta Tilley and garments from local department stores such as Warwick House.
Collaborations
So far, we have been able to collaborate with two local institutions. Madresfield Court have loaned two items to the museum (Home Guard uniform & Coachmans jacket). The Coachman's uniform had never been loaned for display in a museum before. Most recently, we were able to collaborate with the Malvern Theatre Players and the Coach House Theatre, showcasing their costumes in our display Romancing the 18th Century: Rococo to Stage.
Volunteers & Work experience
Since opening we have taken on a group of amazing volunteers. They fulfil various tasks such as providing a friendly welcome to our visitors, taking payment over the till, setting up our Etsy shop and responding to emails. We have also offered work experience placements for students at a local school.
Displays & Exhibitions
Since opening, we have had a number of rotating displays showcasing the regional glove industry, local department stores and mourning fashion to name a few.
Events
The museum hosts regular events, including talks, workshops led by local artists and bi-monthly markets. This helps raise funds to support essential running costs of the museum and bring the creative community together.
In you are interested in running a workshop or a talk then please get in touch. info@fashionmuseummalvern.co.uk
Help us keep going
Become a Friend
The museum is a community interest not for profit company and is in desperate need of funds to stay free to the public.
With just a £5 monthly donation you can become a friend of the museum. Being a friend not only helps us continue to properly care for and store the collection and helps us cover essential running costs.
You will also get:
- Priority access to events
- Invite to private viewings to exhibitions for you and a guest
