Fashioning Chicago’s History by Supporting the Costume Collection
Founded by Mrs. Philip K. Wrigley in April 1974, the purpose of the Costume Council is to support the Chicago History Museum as a leader in the documentation and interpretation of the history and the art of fashion. Through the Costume Council’s efforts, the Museum has been able to maintain and grow a thriving collection. The support the Council provides helps the Chicago History Museum care for, conserve, interpret, and display items in the costume collection to further our understanding of history through clothing. The Council also generously supports the Museum’s costume-based exhibitions and is proud to present what has grown to be one of the world’s premier collections, with pieces dating from the eighteenth century to present.
About the Costume Collection
The Chicago History Museum’s renowned historical fashion collection includes work by distinguished designers such as Charles Frederick Worth, Gabrielle Chanel, Mainbocher, Charles James, Christian Dior, Norman Norell, Geoffrey Beene, Pauline Trigère, Yves Saint Laurent, Hanae Mori, Halston, Gianni Versace, and Christian Lacroix. The collection also represents the rise of Chicago and the dressmakers, milliners, retailers, and manufacturers who made this city their home. Clothing worn by former presidents and first ladies, sports stars, celebrities and everyday people, each exceptional piece is a reflection of Chicago and fashion history. Membership to the Costume Council is by nomination only.
Current and Recent Costume Exhibitions
Making Mainbocher: The First American Couturier
Open through August 20, 2017
Chicago-born Mainbocher established a fashion empire serving royalty, Broadway icons, and the social elite. Raised in a modest home on the city’s West Side, he leveraged his passion for the arts to become a tastemaker of twentieth-century style.
Highly regarded for his impeccable construction and understated elegance, Mainbocher balanced his elite brand by designing uniforms for the US Navy WAVES, the Girl Scouts of the USA, and Chicago’s Passavant Hospital. Featuring nearly thirty garments, as well as fashion illustrations and photography, this exhibition explores the life and legacy of a remarkable man and his journey to become the first American couturier.
Chicago Styled: Fashioning The Magnificent Mile®
November 15, 2014–August 16, 2015
Inspiring Beauty: 50 Years of Ebony Fashion Fair
October 18, 2014–August 12, 2016
Charles James: Genius Deconstructed
October 22‚ 2011–April 16‚ 2012
Contact Us
For more details about the Costume Council, contact Ishan Johnson, Auxiliary Groups Coordinator, at 312-799-2118, ijohnson@chicagohistory.org, or write to:
The Costume Council of the Chicago History Museum
1601 North Clark Street
Chicago, Illinois 60614
