Special Exhibit at the Wolcott House Museum Complex
April 23 - November 1, 2009
"Corsets to Camisoles: Fashions of the Flaming 1920's
"
John Held Jr.
The new exhibit jumps directly from the pages of Fitzgerald's novel, The Great Gatsby. Fitzgerald referred to the 1920's as the "greatest gaudiest spree in history." The modest and maidenly styles of the past were cast aside as the "flapper" generation threw out their corsets and donned loose chemise style dresses festooned with glittering beads and sequins over bared legs with powdered knees and rolled stockings. While skirts rose higher than ever before, yesteryears flowing tresses were replaced by short bobbed hair barely visible under tightly fitted cloche hats.
Included in the new exhibit are several outstanding examples of beautiful beaded and sequined Chanel inspired chemises from the collection of Toledo native, the late Prudence Hutchinson Lamb, who like many young women of the era, purchased them in Paris while on the "grand tour" of Europe. Also on display are lace and chiffon evening gowns, a luxurious "opera coat" and popular "wrap around" styles.
Another "first" in the exhibit is the lovely organza gown and crown worn by Miss Georgiana Rausch who was elected Queen of the Toledo Mardi Gras in 1927. The gown is accompanied by memorabilia from Libbey High School where she was a student. The gowns in this outstanding collection are truly exceptional and are on display for the first time.
Guided Tours Available:
Thursdays - Sundays at
12:30 and 2:30 p.m.
(Closed Holidays)
