The Shippensburg University Fashion Archives & Museum (FA&M) opened its newest exhibit on April 29 and is excited to welcome visitors to experience the first new exhibition since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic.
“Clothed in Beauty: Recent Acquisitions of Shippensburg University Fashion Archives & Museum,” features some of the most recent fascinating donations to the archives. It highlights pieces worn by men, women and children across various cultures including Native American and African American. Global fashions from Spain, Italy, China, Japan, Morocco, Afghanistan and England are also represented. The pieces in the collection range in creation from the eighteenth century to the twenty-first century.
“So many aspects of directing the Fashion Archives & Museum bring joy to my day, and seeing the fabulous garments that current owners, often descendants, are willing to donate is definitely one of them. This exhibit is a celebration of generous donations to the FA&M, selected here for their beauty, intricate construction, or simply their joyful embrace of exuberant color,” said Dr. Karin Bohleke, director of the Fashion Archives and Museum.
The Fashion Archives and Museum is uniquely comprised of a 15,000-item collection of mostly clothing donations dating back from the eighteenth to the twentieth century. The clothes worn by men, women and children assist in expanding the knowledge and understanding of the cultural value as well as the artistic and historical importance. The Fashion Archives and Museum collaborates with faculty and students by providing a dynamic learning environment with hands-on opportunities for students all while letting the public simultaneously enjoy it.
Masks and social distancing are required in the museum. The exhibit is open to groups of fewer than 15 people Monday through Thursday, noon to 4:00 p.m. Admission is $5 for adults, $4 for seniors and children 12 and under are free. For more information, call (717) 477-1239 or visit fashionarchives.org.
