From Dior to Worth: Celebrating 50 Years of Fashion at the Costume Council’s Golden Jubilee

Last night, I had the pleasure of attending the 50th anniversary “Golden Jubilee” of the Costume Council of the Chicago History Museum. The evening was marked by a festive fall dinner, fashion show, and the grand opening of the exhibition “Dressed in History: A Costume Collection Retrospective”. This remarkable exhibition showcases an array of clothing, including an 18th-century French embroidered gown, stunning 19th-century Worth creations, a 1949 Christian Dior wedding gown from his visit to Chicago, and more. With garments ranging from designer evening wear to men’s and children’s outfits, accessories, and beyond, the exhibition represents the depth and richness of the Museum’s costume collection.

As a former volunteer Treasurer and President of the Costume Council, I am thrilled to see this significant milestone come to life. Founded in April 1974 by Mrs. Philip K. Wrigley, the Council has been pivotal in supporting the Chicago History Museum in documenting and interpreting the history and art of fashion. Our efforts over the decades have allowed the Museum to build and maintain one of the world’s premier costume collections, encompassing pieces from the 18th century to the present day.

I would like to extend my heartfelt congratulations to Jessica Pushor, the Collections Manager, for her incredible work in organizing the Golden Jubilee exhibition and catalog. Her dedication and expertise have brought this retrospective to life in a way that truly honors the Council's 50-year legacy.

I’d also like to acknowledge the current Costume Council President, and my longtime friend, David Mordini. It’s been truly gratifying to witness how his leadership, since I first invited him to join the group, has continued to elevate the Council’s mission.

The Chicago History Museum’s collection includes iconic works by designers such as Charles Frederick Worth, Coco Chanel, Mainbocher, Christian Dior, and Yves Saint Laurent, to name just a few. The collection also showcases the rise of Chicago’s own dressmakers, milliners, and retailers, celebrating the role this city played in shaping fashion history. Each piece—from garments worn by presidents and celebrities to everyday citizens—tells a unique story, offering a window into the social, cultural, and economic history of its time.

During my tenure as President of the Costume Council, I had the honor of working alongside a talented team of 24 Executive Committee members, overseeing fundraising efforts and educational programs that supported this collection. Together, we restructured the Committee, added key positions, and launched initiatives that significantly increased our impact. Some of my proudest moments include the initiation of the Chicago Men's Fashion Awards and also the Presidents' Circle Honors, both of which expanded our reach and raised vital funds for the Museum.

It is truly inspiring to see how far the Costume Council has come in its mission to preserve and share fashion history. Exploring history through fashion offers a dynamic, engaging way to connect with the past. Each garment in our collection provides valuable insight into the cultural, social, and economic context of its time, allowing us to better understand the history of Chicago and beyond.

Congratulations to the Costume Council on half a century of dedication—here’s to the next 50 years of weaving Chicagoland’s history through fashion!

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