Paula Stafford Clippings and Photographs
Collection
Photographs and clippings of Paula Stafford at various stages of her life and career, family members, work colleagues, and women modelling bikinis and other fashion wear in different locations and countries. Photographs include those of Paula Stafford's factory and machinists, and models' portfolio photographs for Paula Stafford's Golden Girl Agency. The collection also includes correspondence regarding fashion parades and realia including a suitcase, shopping bag, cloth, school certificate and original trouser pattern for Sammy Davis Jnr.
Paula Broughton Stafford was born in 1920 and worked as an army nurse in Toowoomba during World War II and became a respected national and international fashion designer, manufacturer, and retailer. She is well-known for popularising the bikini, a swimsuit that was invented by the French, and for designing beach wear in general reversible clothing, and travel wardrobes. In 1943 Paula Stafford arrived at the Gold Coast as a young bride with her husband Beverley, and over the next five years, had four children, Frances, Susan, Sibyl, and Michael. During this time she also worked with her husband in their beach business hiring wind breaks, surf floats, and umbrellas, with Paula Stafford additionally weaving and selling men's ties.
In copyright.