An Era of Elegance-Fashion Exhibit
Victorian and Edwardian Fashions from the 1870s to 1910s


Event Type:
Featured Event
Wednesday, August 01, 2007 through Sunday, November 04, 2007
Event Hours:
Tuesday - Saturday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Sunday, Noon to 4 p.m.
Free with Museum Admission


The 1885 Sullivan House serves as backdrop to showcase garments from Dallas Heritage Village’s collections. With a sampling of pieces dating from the late 1870s to the early 1910s, the rapidly evolving progression of styles illustrates not only the changes in fashion but also the broader social and cultural context of the times. A Victorian women's lifestyle and place in society were interpreted by the clothing choices she made.
The exhibit includes not only ladies dresses but the various undergarments and accessories that were an absolute necessity for completing the respectable Victorian woman’s ensemble. Victorian fashions for children are also on exhibit, including a christening gown.
“An Era of Elegance” was conceived and designed by Emily Unrue of Bedford, Texas. Emily has been participating in the 2007 ExxonMobil Community Summer Jobs Program as Dallas Heritage Village’s curatorial intern. She has been spending her summer cataloging and updating Dallas Heritage Village’s textile collection. A senior history major at Texas A&M; University in College Station, Emily aspires to attend graduate school in the fall of 2008. When she isn’t hitting the books or helping a history museum get organized, Emily enjoys traveling, reading and playing tennis.


Q: Is there an additional fee to view the "Era of Elegance" exhibit? A: No--the exhibit is included in the price of admission.
Q: Where is the "Era of Elegance" exhibit located? A: The first floor of the 1885 Sullivan House.
Q: Where can I find more historical information about ladies fashions? A: An exhibit brochure is available at the Ticket Office with background information about Victorian and Edwardian fashion as well as special details about the items on display from the Dallas Heritage Village textile collection. For additional reading selections, Emily Unrue, Curatorial Intern and creator of "Era of Elegance," suggests:
w Victorian & Edwardian Fashion for Women 1840-1919, by Kristina Harris. w 20th Century Dress in the United States, by Jane Farrell-Beck and Jean Parsons. w Victorian Costume for Ladies, by Linda Setnik.
Q: When can I veiw the exhibit? A: Because of the delicate nature of the garments used, the Sullivan House will be open for touring at 1:30 p.m. daily. You will be given ample time to view the entire exhibit and a docent will be available to answer questions.
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