The Charleston Museum presents The Lawn Party: From Satin to Seersucker

The Charleston Museum is pleased to present The Lawn Party: From Satin to Seersucker, the latest offering in its Historic Textiles Gallery, opening May 8, 2021. In an “unprecedented” era when large gatherings have been discouraged and fashion has trended towards leisurewear, this exhibition is a celebration of getting dressed up for an outdoor party. Bringing a hint of glamour to a trying time, the garments on display were selected with the grand idea of “after” in mind. This is a perfect opportunity to come see what to wear for your next outdoor event as we head toward the new “normal.”

The exhibition is arranged by type of fiber and discusses the science of why these materials behave as they do when exposed to heat and humidity. For instance, did you know that silk is a natural thermal insulator?

With objects from the Museum’s Historic Textile and History collections ranging from the 1820s to the present day, garments are mixed across time and occasion in small vignettes, creating conversations through the centuries. Selections will include a striped silk evening dress from 1870, printed rayon day dresses from the 1930s, and a seersucker suit from 2001. Come walk through, and join the party!