1970s chiffon dress from the House of Dan Lee Couture (TRC 2019.2803a).On Friday, 13th December 2019, Gillian Vogelsang wrote:

Just before going to Lisbon for a few days, several very different donations arrived at the TRC.

From the Wijnsma Family there was a selection of garments that date from the late 19th century until the 1970’s. Three items in particular stand out, namely a jacket (TRC 2019.2801) made from black moire silk and decorated with black glass beads (late 19th century).

Secondly an American dress (TRC 2019.2804) from the 1920’s that is made of brown velvet and decorated in the ‘Cherokee’ manner with beads and tassels (an interpretation rather than a copy, and one that was fashionable in the 1920’s).

Finally the TRC received a dress and cape (TRC 2019.2803 and TRC 2019.2903b) designed by the American fashion designer, Dan Lee. It was hand painted by Hyacinth, a well-known artist working in America from the 1970’s, and who included royalty and film stars among her clients.

In addition, from Sherry Cook there was a donation of quilt batting (wadding, padding), a totally unglamorous, but essential addition to the TRC’s Collection of quilts and quilting. Some of these unsung quilt materials will also go on display in the TRC’s exhibition about American quilts that will open on the 5th February 2020.

And last and by no means least, there were also another set of Mexican and Guatemalan woven and embroidered garments from Charles Knobler (see also an earlier donation). These included some amazing items for mern, women and children. These items will form a special exhibition at the TRC in 2021.