For the first time in history, a collection of nearly 40 original ancient Greek costumes, replete with signature pleats, geometric designs and intricate embroidery, has been put up on display outside the country.

The Hellenic Centre in London is hosting ‘Patterns of Magnificence: Tradition and Reinvention in Greek Women’s Costume’, an exhibit featuring clothes, both everyday and formal wears, from the 18th to early 20th century.

Curated by fashion historian and costume designer Ioanna Papantoniou, the display includes a richly embroidered costume from Astypalaia, part of the island group Dodecanese, a selection of fabrics from Stefanoviki, Magnesia and a brocade dress from Janina, Epiru.

Sourced from the country’s Peloponnesian Folklore Foundation and the Benaki Museum, the exhibit also showcases a court dress worn by the first queen of independent Greece, Amalia of Oldenburg, and an outfit belonging to the queen’s late 19th century successor, Olga, a Russian-born consort of George I.

The exhibition was opened by the Greek – Austrian clothes designer Marios Schwab. Click here to see more about Marios Schwab.

“I adore these costumes. Many designs in my collections are inspired by them, as well as the designs of Jean-Paul Gaultier and Hussein Chalayan” said the designer.

Talks and panel discussions related to Greek fashion will be conducted and the exhibition will run till March 2, 2014.