What is Fashion? Clothing from 1780-1825

Presentation from the Daughters of the American Revolution Museum and hosted by Jane Amelon, Daughters of the American Revolution Corresponding Docent

In a 1783 newspaper article, it was suggested that fashion functioned as an agreeable tyrant, in the sense that consumers are subject to it, yet happy to follow its arbitrary dictates.

This lecture presents mens and womens clothing from 1780 to 1825 and considers how Americans wrestled with the political implications of fashion in the post-Revolutionary era. After declaring independence, Americans wanted to create a new national identity and attain international credibility; but how could we rely on foreign imports while maintaining our newly found independence. What was a patriotic American to wear?

The lecture is free, but pre-registration is required so that a Zoom link can be shared with participants in advance.

To register, email jengland@smithfieldva.gov by 12:30 p.m. Sunday, April 25.

Admission
Free