"Chic Chicago: Couture Treasures from the Chicago History Museum," is a blockbuster look at the museum's permanent collection of fashions dating from 1861 to 2004. The most prominent couturiers from the 19th and 20th centuries are represented in the exhibit of more than 60 gowns, while the showcase also symbolizes generations of Chicago women who chose to express themselves through fashion. The exhibition is currently on display and runs through July 26.
A special event, "Closets are for Clothes," will be held on Thursday, Jan. 29, in conjunction with the "Chic Chicago" exhibition, as well as "Out at CHM," a program that traces the histories of gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender communities. "Closets are for Clothes" will explore the role fashion has played through the ages as a marker of sexual identities. Chicago History Museum curator of costumes and textiles Timothy Long will discuss not only the famous gay men and women who have helped shape the fashion industry, from Christian Dior to Marc Jacobs, but also the fashion statements throughout history that have also been sexual statements.
The evening will begin at 5:30PM for a cocktail reception and a viewing of the "Chic Chicago" exhibition at the museum. The discussion with Timothy Long will begin at 6:30PM, followed by an after-party at Lakeview's Kit Kat Lounge & Supper Club from 8-10PM. Guests with ticket stubs from the exhibition will receive 20 percent off of their food bill plus $5 VOX vodka cocktails throughout the evening at Kit Kat. Tickets for the "Closets are for Clothes" event are $12 per person.
