Department store David Jones has revealed details of initiatives in the works to celebrate its 175th birthday.
The retailer, established in 1838, will mark the milestone next month through an interactive exhibition to be held at the iconic On Seven space at the David Jones’ Elizabeth Street store.
With over 100 images and 75 artefacts the exhibition will aim to take viewers on a journey through 175 years of the department store, showcasing its rich history across design, architecture and fashion.
The exhibition will also detail some of David Jones' most prevalent landmark events, including Christian Dior’s fashion show in 1947 and the Queen Elizabeth II visit in 1954.
In addition, the exhibition will showcase a collage of past and present television commercials and advertising materials created exclusively for David Jones by the likes of renowned artists like Max Dupain.
Guests will also be able to step back in time and be transported into the 'The Grand Restaurant' that once operated On Seven.
Celebrating its heritage in fine dining and now its Food Hall, a modern eatery will be set up where guests will be able to dine while observing much of the original crockery and cutlery that harks back to the opulent eras gone by.
The David Jones 175th exhibition will kick off with a gala event for David Jones 'Fashion Family', media, VIPS and dignitaries on Thursday May 23, before officially opening to the public on Saturday May 25.
The celebrations will continue throughout the month of May, with a special collection of commemorative exclusive and designer David Jones product to also be released to mark the 175th anniversary.
Product will include: a exclusive print clutch/ipad and print cushion from iconic designer Camilla Franks, Collette Dinnigan Lace Clutch, as well as an Agenda Houndstooth iPad case, Easton Pearson necklaces and a limited edition Missoni umbrella. Product will be priced from $12.95 to $249.
Commenting on the milestone, David Jones CEO Paul Zahra said the initiatives will allow the department store to celebrate its 175th year anniversary with its customers.
“David Jones is so engrained in the Australian consciousness and we are delighted to be able to celebrate our 175th birthday with the public, through this exhibition,” he said.
“While collating the David Jones 175th anniversary book, we discovered so many unique facts and wonderful people who were able to share their memories and the exhibition is a fantastic way to bring them all to life. We look forward to sharing all things past, present and future to the people of Australia.”
The David Jones 175th anniversary exhibition will run from May 25 to June 23, 2013 from 10am to 4pm daily and 10am to 7pm Thursdays and Fridays.