Adornment & IdentityAn interactive exhibition of women’s fashion from 1750–2000.
Presented by the BC Society for the Museum of Original Costume
Clothing reveals us.
It communicates who we are, what we do, and what we value.
By examining historical garments we can know a person’s occupation, social and economic status, gender and cultural identity, and political and religious affiliation. We can understand when the wearer lived and the kind of material resources and technology available to them.
This exhibition presents a collection of women’s garments created between 1750–2000. Each reflects the design, materials, and construction techniques of its time, telling us the story of a past we can use to inform our future.
Women’s Fashion 1750–2000
Just as fashion constantly evolves, it is continuously informed and held together by a common thread: the past. This exhibit highlights the importance of collecting and preserving the clothing of the past in order to inform the future.
Clothing as a reflection of the times.
Clothing is a reflection of the time in which it was created. This exhibit examines two distinct periods in fashion history through the lens of two dresses, comparing the design styles, materials used, and construction techniques of clothing made in each period, and positioning those factors within the social, political, and cultural context of each period.
Stories that unfold the fabric of the past.
Historical artefacts gain much of their power and relevance from the stories attached to them. In this exhibit we examine a selection of garments, which on their own are not terribly important, but when examined through the experiences of the people who wore them, take on historical significance.
The making of early haute couture.
How clothing is made constantly evolves, and can tell us much about a particular place and time. This exhibit invites users to examine how one historical couture dress—an evening gown designed in Paris by Charles Frederick Worth in 1900—was constructed.
Educational ResourcesStudents and educators can find pathways to additional information and learning opportunities including lesson plans, worksheets and activities, and links to other online resources.
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About the ProjectLearn about the genesis of this exhibition, its goals, and team behind it.
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