Bodice, pullover

Kim Philpotts bought this handknitted jumper, with its distinctive pattern of putti, from Joseph in around 1983. It is one of a number of items of clothing donated to the museum by Philpotts.

Philpotts grew up in Stratford Upon Avon in the 1960s, and studied Set and Costume Design at Birmingham, before moving to London in 1982. Her clothing represents fashionable designer and high street clothing in London during the 1980s and 1990s, and while the receipts for these items have since been lost, Philpotts can still remember where many of them were bought.

Philpotts bought this jumper from Joseph's flagship store in Sloane Street, Knightsbridge. Philpotts had really wanted it, and patiently waited until she could buy it in the sale at a reduced price. Joseph had initially championed the work of emerging designers, but launched its own brand clothing soon after, beginning with distinctive knitwear (Joseph Tricot).