KENT, OHIO – The Kent State University Museum announces the opening of “Head to Toe” on Feb. 2, 2023. On view through Jul. 23, 2023, the trilogy of exhibitions draws from the Kent State University Museum’s permanent collection. Highlighting hats, coats, and shoes, visitors will see the evolution of these essential garments as styles, technologies and trends evolve. “We are pleased to share the traditions and design changes in the apparel that protects us from the weather, keeps us comfortable, and very stylish. Visitors will also experience the outstanding quality and the many treasures in the KSU Museum collection,” states Museum Director and curator of the exhibitions, Sarah J. Rogers.
“It’s a Wrap! Coats” showcases an array of 20th century and 21st century men's and women’s coats. The sources for the coats, especially women’s coats, that stem from menswear traditions including the Chesterfield, Frock, Pea, Mourning, Puffer, Duster, and the Trench. These elegant and functional garments will be in the Stager Gallery.
“Heads up! Hats” highlights how hats can take the wearer from the practical to the ridiculous. This includes designs dating back to the 19th century and well-known milliners like Peter Bentley, Bes-Ben, Patricia Underwood, and Patrick Treacy. These will be on view in the Blum Gallery.
“Stepping Out! Shoes” looks at the shoe designs from the 19th century today. This will be a treat for everyone, especially the shoe fanatic. Until the 20th century shoemakers were unknown to anyone other than the customer. Today, shoe designers are superstars, often known by one name—Ferragamo, Manolo, or Louboutin. The shoes will be displayed in the Stager/Blum Hallway Gallery.
“Head to Toe” is made possible by the Ohio Arts Council.
About the Kent State University Museum
The Kent State University Museum is located at 515 Hilltop Drive, at the corner of East Main Street and South Lincoln Street in Kent, Ohio. It features more than 29,000 pieces in its collection, amassed from many generous donors. The museum is open to the public Tuesday through Saturday from 11 a.m. - 5 p.m. and Sunday from noon - 4 p.m. Tickets can be purchased in person at the museum or in advance through the museum’s online ticketing service.
Admission is $6 for adults, $5 for seniors and $4 for children ages 5 to 17. The museum is free for children under 5 and for those with a Kent State ID. Sunday admission is free for all ages. Parking is free for all museum attendees. Patrons should use the allotted museum spaces in the Rockwell Hall parking lot. For more information, please call 330-672-3450 or visit www.kent.edu/museum.
Images: (Left) Halston, ca. 1962-63, Gift of the Estate of Phyllis P. Peckham, In Memory of Phyllis P. Peckham, KSUM 2000.2.15; (Middle) Patrick Kelly, 1980s, Gift of Martha Inc., KSUM 1990.30.1; (Right) Roger Vivier for Agnes B, 1990s, Gift of ABW Enterprises, KSUM 1999.19.2