Picture
Schiaparelli box ca 1950s
Purpose
To help people make meaningful and purposeful connections to fashion as material culture.
Mission
To be a catalyst for connecting people through an interdisciplinary and inclusive approach to the study, conservation, and exhibition of fashion.
Vision
Integrating the past, present, and future ethos of fashion using diverse methodologies.
Scope
The Fashion Archive contains over 5,500 dress and related objects dating from the 19th century to present day.
Collection Plan
The primary emphasis of The Fashion Archive is acquiring dress and related objects of outstanding aesthetic quality, technical construction, and interesting provenance from the 19th century to present day for study, research, and exhibition.
The Fashion Archive ensures that:

  • all objects in the collection are documented in the collection database and accounted for through inventory practices
  • all objects are cared for, protected, secure, and preserved using the highest professional and ethical standards
  • accessioning, deaccessioning, and loans reflect the highest professional standards and ethics in compliance with the mission
  • access to the collection and its information is allowed and regulated
  • all activities related to the collection are to promote the public good.
The Fashion Archive will:

  • expand the collection of historic and contemporary dress and related objects
  • engage, interact, and collaborate with members of the University as well as local, regional, and national communities
  • increase global awareness and use of the collection through digital access and social media applications
  • provide undergraduate students with unique opportunities to study and explore techniques and creativity
  • offer top-quality graduate level courses in collections management, curatorial practices, and exhibition design
  • develop innovative exhibitions to advance the knowledge and appreciation of fashion
  • implement effective outreach efforts through public programs, lectures, and special events/activities
  • maintain professional curatorial procedures, practices, and ethics
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