The items on view illustrate not only fashion trends and social history, but also design elements, fabric selection, and construction techniques. The reinstalled collection presents unique statements of creativity that speak to the human passion for beauty, adornment, and identity.
Visitors will explore the evolution of modern fashion through shifting clothing styles and ideals. Beginning with a large selection of 18th century garments illustrating class distinctions and gender roles of their times, the collection showcases the evolution of modern dress from heavy, thick Anglaise and Polonaise style gowns, to sleek dinner suits that epitomize timeless elegance and glamour. The collection also contains historically significant pieces, such as a Ball Gown(circa 1857-1861) worn by Harriet Lane, a fashion trendsetter from the mid-19th century and the only First Lady in the nation’s history who was not married to a sitting U.S. President. The collection also showcases an exquisite Court Suit (1770) belonging to a guest at the royal wedding of King Louis XVI and Marie Antoinette at the palace of Versailles.
