Highlights
Currently the collection is estimated at more than 7,000 objects and includes holdings of garments, accessories, lace, fashion plates, photographs and other related ephemera. The earliest objects date from the late 18th century, many with distinguished Philadelphia and Pennsylvania provenances. The DHCC is rich in local dressmakers and retail establishments- a reflection of the wealth and cultural sophistication that gave Philadelphia the nickname of “the Athens of the United States.”
Strengths of the DHCC include Parisian high fashion dating from the late 19th and early 20th century, including significant examples by Madeleine Vionnet and Callot Soeurs. American design is well-represented, running the gamut from the prestigious custom salons of Jessie Franklin Turner and Hattie Carnegie to the sophisticated and practical sportswear of Bonnie Cashin. Contemporary examples include recent acquisitions by Chado Ralph Rucci and Oscar de la Renta.
Evening Gown
- Callot Soeurs
- Orange lamé with blue satin and metallic lace
- Winter 1909, France
- DHCC, 3520.3.2
- Gift from the Estate of Minnie Drexel Fell Cassatt
Evening Dress
- Chado Ralph Rucci
- Printed brown silk with all-over beading
- Spring 2005, USA
- DHCC, 2005.1.1
- Gift of Ralph Rucci
Images courtesy of the Drexel Digital Museum Project