Ingenue to Icon: 70 Years of Marjorie Post Fashion at Hillwood

The first exhibition at Hillwood to present Marjorie Post’s full range of style, Ingenue to Icon examines how Post’s lifelong passion for objects that were exceptionally beautiful and impeccably constructed extended to her taste for clothing. Even before she became a celebrated connoisseur and assembled a renowned decorative arts collection, Post developed a keen interest in clothing and a great appreciation for the richness of fabrics, expert tailoring, and elegant design. From a confection in tulle and taffeta made for her 16th birthday to the flapper silhouettes of the 1920s and sophisticated gowns of the 1950s, Post's changing styles are consistently characterized by fine craftsmanship, beautiful materials, and fashionable styles.

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Post was born in 1887 and came of age during some of the most transformative times for American women in the 20th century. She played many roles throughout her life, from a young Edwardian bride, to high-profile business and society figure, to independent grande dame. She was always aware that how she presented herself, particularly through her dress, reflected her personality while projecting her role to society. The seven decades of apparel represented in the exhibition and the accompanying archival materials and portraits also offer insights into the progress of American society from the early 1900s to the 1970s and a new perspective on an emblematic woman whose life, sense of self, and wardrobe reflect the rapidly changing times.

Summer styles on view through September 27th. New display of Fall and Winter fashions begins October 1st. Exhibition runs through December 31, 2015

Hillwood Museum is located at 4155 Linnean Avenue, NW.