Stephens College Costume Museum & Research Library
The Costume Museum & Research Library (est. 1958) has grown by donations from alumnae, friends and designers to more than 13,000 pieces, including representations of ethnic wear, everyday clothes of women, men and children, and an impressive list of designer garments.
Among the many designers represented are Oleg Cassini, Arnold Scaasi, Gilbert Adrian, Bill Blass, Bonnie Cashin, Chanel, Courreges, Madame Etta, Claire McCardell, Norman Norell, Oscar de la Renta and Valentino. This working collection of garments and accessories dating back to 1730 allows students to study not only garment construction but fashion trends that provide inspiration for current styles with actual hands-on experience. Archival storage areas protect the integrity of the collection, and classroom space allows for research and lecture discussions. The collection also is viewable via an online museum.
Historic Costume Gallery
Two public exhibits are held in the Historic Costume Gallery (on the mezzanine floor of Lela Raney Wood Hall, 6 N. College Ave.) throughout the year. All exhibits are free and open to the public.
About Fashion Circus
In the News
- Old-fashioned outfits are at home in the Stephens College Costume Museum (Vox)
- Exhibit focuses on evolution of women in the workplace and what they wore (Columbia Daily Tribune)
- Stephens exhibit revisits styles, stories of decades past (Columbia Daily Tribune)
- Song and style - Stephens College exhibit draws inspiration from the stage (Columbia Daily Tribune)
Past Exhibits
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