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What a night for Baltimore fashion!
I had an amazing time at the Maryland Historical Society this weekend at the Spectrum of Fashion Gala that kicked off their landmark archival collection, Spectrum of Fashion: Celebrating Maryland’s Style. The collection features designers like Maryland-born Claire McCardell, whose patterns I would browse for hours at G-street fabrics in Rockville, Hermès, Pierre Cardin, and Worth. Livery worn by formerly enslaved individuals at Hampton Mansion in Towson, and a gown worn to George Washington’s inaugural ball, are just a few of the rare costumes on display.
“The Maryland Historical Society’s costume collection is, in every sense of the word, encyclopedic,” said Alexandra Deutsch, Vice President of Collections and Interpretation. “The Spectrum of Fashion exhibition will allow the public to more fully discover this great treasure and learn the power of fashion as a document of history and society.”
The exhibit also honors contemporary Maryland designers from Christian Siriano – who MC’d the gala! – to another local fashion darling Bishmie Cromartie, and couturier Ella Pritsker, who created the custom-made dress I wore to the after party!
Ella made this satin and lace slip dress for me earlier this year, and I’d been waiting for the perfect opportunity to wear it. Since she’s featured in the Spectrum of Fashion exhibit for her legacy in the fashion industry, this was the perfect event to show it off!
I accessorized with gold and diamond earrings by the fabulous jewelry artist Rebecca Myers.
The gala’s fashion show was amazing, with more than 40 Maryland designers, boutiques, and vintage dealers that sent over 100 looks down the runway. I had a blast walking for Annapolis boutique Wrabyn and jewelry artist Rebecca Myers Collection, as well as luxury consignment store Love Me Two Times.
Backstage in a Celine dress from Phoebe Philo’s last collection for the brand, available at Love Me Two Times. Hair by Roni Martin at Varuna Salon and Spa, makeup by Kelley Unthank.
The historic garments from the exhibit are works of art in themselves. Can you believe that the Maryland Historical Society discovered the collection, which dates back to the 1800’s, in the museum’s basement in 2008? For the past several years they have been cataloging, restoring and researching the history of each piece – and now it’s on display to the public.
The exhibit includes work by contemporary designers as well. From left to right: Bishme Cromartie, Christian Siriano, and Ella Pritsker Couture.
Overall it was a marvelous night and I look forward to going back and taking more time to soak in the exhibit!
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What an incredible event! All of the pieces looked amazing. Also loved your hair
Thanks Colleen! Roni did a fabulous job styling it after I said I was thinking about cutting it short!
A perfect night! All the models looked beautiful, the exhibition is spectacular, and the event was a smashing success. Thanks for being a part of it!
It was truly a night to remember – my kudos to the whole planning team on making it a hit!
I just love this dress!! So stunning on you, and now I want one myself. Had major FOMO but will hopefully make the next fashion event!
Thank you! Ella is the best. Hope to see you out and about soon but your trip looked fantastic too!
You are so right! It is very cool for Baltimore to have such a fashion collection on display. I loved previewing it with you and can’t wait to go back and soak it all in!
Yes! I need to go back and actually read about each piece so I can update this post! 🙂