The Little Black Dress on the Red Carpet

February 27, 2009 – March 28, 2009

Organized by the Kansas State University Historic Costume and Textile Museum
Donna Lindsey Vanier Gallery

The little black dress has been a fashion icon and a staple in most woman’s wardrobes for years. The Beach Museum of Art is pleased to collaborate with the Kansas State University Historic Costume and Textile Museum to present “Little Black Dress-On the Red Carpet” February 27 through March 29.

The exhibition shows the diversity and importance of the little black dress throughout its history and includes dresses worn by local and international celebrities. Governor Kathleen Sebelius, Marianna Kistler Beach, and Ruth Ann Wefald have lent dresses for the occasion. Dresses worn by Felicity Huffman of Desperate Housewives, Edie Falco of the Soprano’s and America Ferrera of Ugly Betty are included in the exhibition. Dresses and accessories from the collection of the Historic Costume and Textile Museum will also be on view.

Part of the exhibition includes a design contest for K-State students and professionals. Contestants have designed their own original little black dresses and the entries will be judged by three guest designers: Charles Kleiback (master of the bias cut) and K-State alums Jeigh Singleton, Washington University, St. Louis, and Linda Lee, owner of The Sewing Workshop Pattern Collection.