Contact: Maridith Geuder
An exhibit now at the Starkville Public Library illustrates how, from women's rights to the exercise craze, fashion reacts to the world around it.
Organized by two Mississippi State University classes and titled "Living in a Material World: How Fashion Fits In," the presentation runs through the end of May at the 326 University Dr. location. In June, the exhibit moves to MSU's Mitchell Memorial Library.
Students in a visual merchandising course taught by Phyllis Bell Miller and Wanda Cheek's historic costume course collaborated on the exhibit, which highlights different eras, influences and fashion results. Miller and Cheek are assistant professors in the School of Human Sciences.
"Most of our display reflects changes in the 20th century, but some go as far back as the 1860s," Miller said. "We wanted to look at the events that had an effect on fashion."
Politics, entertainment, technology, and international relations are among influences illustrated.
"After the Civil War, the measurements taken for uniforms became a standard for menswear," Miller said. On the other hand, "after World War II designs by Christian Dior, using volumes of material, were a reaction against the sternness of war."
In the mid- 1980s, a New York City subway strike helped the running shoe put its first popular foot forward. Miller said the strike started the trend of wearing sneakers, a trend that snowballed with the emphasis on physical fitness and today is reflected in bodysuits and leggings.
More recently, technology is having an effect on the way that the public dresses, Cheek said. While the exhibit traces the impact of new introductions ranging from zippers to nylon, a current emphasis is the way that computer-aided design is used by the fashion industry.
For more information, telephone Miller at (662) 325-8783.