The award-winning authors of this small book with a big heart delve into Te Papa's collections of over 1600 badges to examine how New Zealanders have used badges to join, belong, resist, defy and celebrate. They explore what we've worn over the years and why, and New Zealanders' passion for badges, for joining and belonging.
Set against the backdrop of colonial fashion, this book explores the opulence and extravagance of the era, highlighting the significance of crinolines, bustles, and ostrich feathers. It delves into the societal norms and cultural implications of these fashion trends, revealing how clothing choices reflected status and identity. Through vivid descriptions and historical context, the narrative captures the allure and complexity of fashion during a time when style was a powerful form of expression.