History never looked this good: Chicago History Museum’s opens costume exhibit

On Saturday, October 19, the Chicago History Museum opens its new exhibit “Dressed in History: A Costume Collection Retrospective,” which will provide a glimpse into the world’s finest costume collections in history. The collection will feature over 70 rarely-seen artifacts that will highlight the history of fashion as well as the rich history of manufacturing and retail that has existed in Chicago for nearly 200 years.

“Dressed in History” showcases both garments and accessories in men’s, women’s, and children’s fashion. The historic collection will feature couture designs as well as home-sewn items, all separated into four distinct categories: Everyday/Sportswear, Couture & Designer, Historic Dress, and Art & Fashion.

Some unique examples of artifacts that will be present in this collection include an original pair of Air Jordan 1s, a white tulle Christian Dior gown, a red sequin burlesque costume, and a baby’s wool bathing suit.

This collection is part of the Chicago History Museum’s celebration of hitting a major milestone—reaching 100 years of its costume collection and Costume Council. Browse highlights from the costume collection on the museum’s website .