Upcoming Exhibits
The Costume Museum has an extensive collection of clothing and related accessories that are rotated on an 8 week basis. We have two galleries that are programmed to reflect the scope of the collection.
Collection Highlights: 50 Years of Collecting and Preserving
From Nov 22nd, 2009 until Jan 17th, 2010
Many gems can be found in our collection of over 35,000 clothing artifacts! This exhibit invites visitors to share in volunteer and staff favourites that have amassed over the last fifty years.
Foundations: Underneath it All
From Nov 22nd, 2009 until Jan 17th, 2010
Every good outfit starts with a good foundation. This exhibit will look at the history of the bra and foundation wear.
This exhibit has been made possible with generous support from
Please visit their website at:
http://www.thebrabar.com/
Wartime Weddings
From Jan 19th, 2010 until Apr 4th, 2010
Special garments are an important part of many rituals the world over, but the wedding dress tops them all. This show will display bridal wear from the years of the First and Second World Wars, when weddings offered happy reprieve from hard times.
Native/American Apparel
From Jan 19th, 2010 until Apr 4th, 2010
Guest curator: Jenny Western, Urban Shaman Gallery
Bringing together artwork by Contemporary Aboriginal artists, Lita Fontaine and KC Adams, alongside pieces drawn from the collection at the Costume Museum of Canada, Native/American Apparel looks at the relationship of fashion, clothing, and textile to the representation of Indigenous identities. By juxtaposing historical artifacts with current artworks, Native/American Apparel encourages viewers to consider the role of the collection and exhibition of objects made by First Nations and Metis people in galleries and museums, particularily those objects made by women.
In partnership with
This exhibit was made possible with generous support from
Silk
From Apr 6th, 2010 until Jul 13th, 2010
Enshrouded in mystery, silk is a natural wonder. Known for its luxury and lustre, silk is the ultimate textile. We will be showing off some of our most impressive pieces fashioned from silk.
Women of Style
From Apr 6th, 2010 until Jul 13th, 2010
This annual project engages women in our community who demonstrate a strong fashion sense. We will showcase their favorite clothing and share the stories behind each woman’s individual sense of style.
Famous Designers
From Jun 15th, 2010 until Aug 29th, 2010
Amidst our large collection of clothing artifacts, some pieces stand out as classic works of art from renowned couturiers. These garments from famous international designers will be showcased.
Dior's New Look
From Jun 15th, 2010 until Aug 29th, 2010
Christian Dior created his “New Look” in 1947, which launched a generation of fashions that continue to inspire contemporary designers. This exhibit will show pieces from our collection that exemplify this post-war style.
Red
From Aug 31st, 2010 until Nov 7th, 2010
Charged with symbolism and status, the colour red has had various meaning in different times and cultures. We will examine the origins of red in Europe and the quest for the perfect clothing pigment.
Pain and Beauty
From Aug 31st, 2010 until Nov 7th, 2010
We all suffer for style! Whether in high heels or corsets, suffering for style has been a universal truth for centuries.
Wynn van Slyck Centennial
From Nov 9th, 2010 until Jan 16th, 2011
Our museum’s founding curator, Mrs. Winnifred Van Slyck, was instrumental in the establishment of our now renowned collection. November 2010 will mark her one hundredth birthday and we would be honoured to celebrate it with you. Over the years Mrs. Van Slyck donated her own clothing as well as clothing she acquired in her travels. This show will celebrate her marvelous contributions to the Costume Museum of Canada.