Even if you are not a fashion historian, you have likely seen images of the clothing people wore in the past. Whether you saw them online, or in your own family photos, the outer garments of individuals are fairly visible. But what about what lies underneath? What does that look like???
Dress. About 1836-1840. Gift of Annetta Eddy Brigham. 2001.49.9.
Born (Dollie) Clarice Helene Simmons in Antigua, West Indies, Dollie McLean was raised in Manhattan, later lived in the Bronx, and graduated from both the University of Hartford and FIT. Mrs. McLean has been an avid participant in the arts throughout her life, having performed off-Broadway as an actress and dancer with various organizations like the Negro Ensemble Company. Continue reading
Our exhibit, Making Connecticut, showcases over 500 objects, images, and documents from the CHS collection. “What is this?” posts will highlight an object from the exhibit and explore its importance in Connecticut history every other week. What is this object? What is the story behind it? Continue reading
I get asked this question quite frequently. The truth is that it changes depending on what I am working on at the moment because I don’t have a true favorite period. I love various aspects from almost every period of costume history, especially between the 1770s and the 1960s. However, there is a period that has always been, and will always be, particularly close to my heart…
Fashion Illustration. 1831. Scrapbook entitled “Fashion of a Century 1776-1876.” The Connecticut Historical Society, 1998.99.0.
It is time to unveil the 2014 line up of Behind-the-Scenes Tours. We’re offering even more access to the hidden treasures of Connecticut history that are normally behind closed doors, and with the option of buying a Season Pass, you can get that sneak peek at a great 20% discount!
This time of year I always find myself hoping for an opportunity to attend a swanky party that requires a bit of sparkle and holiday elegance. Yet the season consistently brings casual family gatherings requiring little more than jeans and sweaters, or New Year’s plans including games and staying in with my sisters and our respective significant others. Now, don’t get me wrong, I love these holiday gatherings that have become a tradition in my life, but…if that invitation ever comes…I think I’d like to sew up my own version of one of these….
Woman’s Dress. 1950s. Gift of Nora Oakes Howard. The Connecticut Historical Society. 2012.532.14.
Often times at the CHS, we write articles, present programs, and give tours based on our collections. Many times these articles, programs, and tours are based on information and items we already know we have in the collection. However, sometimes the topic comes first, and the illustrations come second.
Cheney Album. Volume 5. 1991.28.5.
inside the CHS 