What is costume mounting?

Underneath every costume is a mount made up of invisible supports that keep the garments safe while on display. We customise each figure to the clothing, from re-shaping the mount with padding to creating bespoke underpinnings that define the silhouette.

We often make replicas of any missing costume components to complete an ensemble, helping visitors to best visualise how the garment was worn.

Writer: Stephanie Howell, Costume Display Conservator, Textiles Conservation
Published: May 2025 

Description: Female mannequin used in the ‘Fashioned from Nature’ exhibition

Description: Mannequin used in the ‘Kimono: Kyoto to Catwalk’ exhibition

Working Museum