Arts & Culture

Missouri’s Fashion History: Now On Display

April 5, 2022

SHSMO exhibit showcases Show-Me State’s mark on the industry.

COLUMBIA—A new exhibit featuring the 200-plus year evolution of Missouri style and the important role of its apparel industry is on display at the State Historical Society of Missouri Art Gallery now through the end of June at the Center for Missouri Studies, 605 Elm St., Columbia. The MOda 200: Missouri Style Makers, Merchants & Memories exhibit is a collaboration between the State Historical Society and Missouri Historic Costume and Textile Collection of the University of Missouri’s Department of Textile and Apparel Management. The free exhibition features clothing, artwork, and accessory artifacts of the industry from rural dressmakers to urban retail and manufacturing giants in the state.

*Shoes have evolved, as shown in this side-by-side exhibit. Photos courtesy State Historical Society of Missouri Art Gallery*

“Missouri’s apparel history is often overlooked as an important part of the state’s economic growth,” says Nicole Johnston, curator of the Missouri Historic Costume and Textile Collection. “So, we’re bringing attention to that history from its earliest forms of dress, represented by a Native American beaded vest from MU’s Museum of Anthropology, to its most recent: a hand-sewn gold sequin gown worn last fall as part of Rock Bridge High School’s Homecoming festivities.” Missouri became a world leader of fur and stylish footwear, and the nation’s largest manufacturer of junior dresses. It was also the second-largest garment and millinery producer in the country. SHSMO Art Curator Joan Stack says the exhibit is a wonderful collaboration with the Missouri Historic Costume and Textile Collection. Visitors can see this exhibition and other artworks on display at the SHSMO Art Gallery. “This unique exhibit helps our patrons see the links between fine art, fashion and history. It’s exciting to see clothing from three centuries of Missouri’s cultural heritage on display,” Joan says. The public is invited to visit MOda 200: Missouri Style Makers, Merchants & Memories exhibit during regular visitor hours at the SHSMO Art Gallery Tuesday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and each Saturday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Learn more about MOda 200 at SHSMO.org.