The Fashion Archives and Museum of Shippensburg University (FA&M) is pleased to announce the opening of its newest exhibit “Fashionable Dances and Dancing Fashions.” The exhibit features outfits commonly worn to perform dances, ranging from the waltz to disco, and gives visitors a look into the history of American social dance.
“The steps, crazes and fads may change with the decades, but the role of dance in courtship, celebrations and entertainment remains constant. The exhibit explores the fashionable dances and the dancing fashions from the 1810s to the 1980s,” said Karin Bohleke, director of FA&M.
FA&M is home to a 15,000-item collection, comprised mostly of donations, consisting of clothing and accessories worn by men, women and children, dating from the eighteenth to the twentieth century. Expanding knowledge and appreciation of clothing for its artistic, cultural and historical importance and its essential role in society, FA&M is an integral component of the university. Collaborating with students and faculty, it offers a dynamic learning environment with hands-on learning opportunities for students, while preserving and enhancing the collection for the public to enjoy.
The new exhibit runs through July 2. Museum hours are Monday through Thursday noon to 4:00 p.m. and other times by appointment. Group tours are available upon request.
