Fashion & Masters: Deconstructing Dress at Timken Museum of Art

The Timken Museum of Art transported the guests back to the elegance of the Rococo era during its Fashion & Masters: Deconstructing Dress in the 18th century on June 14.

The evening began with a wine and hors d’oeuvres reception before fashion historian Dr. Kimberly Chrisman-Campbell captivated the audience with an illustrated lecture exploring the etiquette, symbolism, and craftsmanship of 18th century dress.

Following a dessert intermission, museum interns modeled period garments while Dr. Chrisman-Campbell explained how clothing reflected a person’s status in society. Fashion served as a form of non-verbal communication, with every layer, fabric, and accessory conveying wealth and social rank.

Guests learned that linen was worn as an undergarment because it could be washed regularly. Dressing was an elaborate process requiring multiple layers with the assistance of servants.

By the 1740s, the fashionable silhouette featured a dramatic hourglass shape created by a corset reinforced with whalebone. Women wore wide hoop petticoats with hidden pockets worn on court occasions. High heels were worn by both men and women, while a thriving resale market for clothing existed long before today’s online marketplaces.

The program concluded with a lively Q&A session, giving attendees an opportunity to learn even more about the 18th century fashion and daily life.

Located in Balboa Park, the Timken Museum of Art has preserved the Putnam Collection of European Old Masters, American art, and Russian icons since 1965. The museum also offers Musical Masterpieces, A free piano series that combines music and art. To learn more about upcoming exhibitions and events, visit timkenmuseum.org/.

Upcoming Event

• Sunday, July 12 – Sip & Style: San Diego’s Fill-A-Bag Sustainable Fashion. Begins at 1 p.m. at Pure Project North Park. Tickets at: https://bit.ly/4a2mg6p.

Diana Cavagnaro is an internationally renowned Couture Milliner based in the Southern California area. Learn more about our hat designer, teacher and podcaster at dianacavagnaro.com.