This exhibit marks the culmination of an ambitious recataloging project by guest curator Astrida Schaeffer. While carefully choosing exhibitable samples from the various eras in fashion that are represented in the Irma Bowen Collection, Ms. Schaeffer has examined, sorted, researched and hung (or boxed in archival materials) the entire collection. Changes to the condition of a textile, or its historical attribution, have been carefully documented and become a detailed record for that piece. Minor repairs are documented and fully reversible so that future conservators can implement any developments in textile care, if necessary.

The dressforms in the exhibit have been manufactured individually by Ms. Schaeffer using state-of-the-art techniques to accommodate the style of the garment (and the female figure contortions of the day!). These custom-made forms carefully support the fabric and demonstrate how the garment was worn.