Taster Lecture: The Colour Black in Textiles and Dress - pre-recorded

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Those who have booked to receive a recording of Jennifer Wearden's fascinating, free one hour long lecture will receive their link by tomorrow morning, to watch this lecture on demand at anytime from anywhere in the world. Thank you for booking, and you'll receive the recording link and password to view the recording within 24 hours.

Black is probably the most versatile colour in dress. It can be sexy, sophisticated and occasionally mysterious. At the same time black is respectable and authoritative and yet it was a difficult colour to dye and did not appear in any quantity until the 14th century. After that it was worn to great effect by courtiers and more modestly by theologians. It has become the uniform of the professional classes and the essential ‘little black dress’ can be found in many wardrobes. This versatile colour has a rich and sometimes surprising history.
Join Jennifer Wearden’s this September to explore 'Textiles: Prehistory to 1700' or browse the full V&A Academy programme now.

This is a pre-recorded lecture, which can be viewed at any time, there is no need to join at the suggested time you'll see on the right side.

With V&A Academy Online, you can log in to view lectures live and pose your questions in the Q&A for all our courses, or view the recording later in your own time for additional 12 or 6 weeks after the last live session. Download lecture notes, copies of the slides, and additional study materials from our secure learning environment. Then join the conversation: share your perspective with your fellow students, and support each other in your further enquiries outside of class time.

Note: all V&A Academy Online courses - and this taster session - take place on Microsoft Teams. After you book your place, you will be sent a link to the recorded lecture with Q&A within 24 hours and you can enjoy back-watching the recording until Friday 14 October midday.
We recommend Google Chrome or Microsoft Edge for the best viewing experience.