African Heritage Guides Joy Johnson and Pennie Mendes explore 18th and
19th-century global trade networks to reveal how and why elite
Parisian Fashion became so influential —Across the Atlantic, in a world
defined by colonial power and authority, where laws, labour, and
appearance were tightly regulated, Creole ladies began self-styling
textiles as acts of quiet defiance. Through dress and accessories, they
negotiated survival, self-expression, and independence, articulating their
own forms of cultural freedom.
Joy Johnson and Pennie Mendes are volunteer guides for the
African & Caribbean Heritage tour: Past Meets Present - Tour at the V&A South Kensington.
If you would like to learn more with V&A Academy, please sign up to our
V&A Academy Newsletter to be updated on future courses and events.