TOP TEN BLACK DRESSES IN THE MOVIES – Movie Geek Lecture at Missouri History Museum April 5th

The Little Black Dress—a simple, short cocktail dress—is a sartorial staple for most contemporary women. Prior to the early 20th century, simple, unadorned black garments were limited to mourning, and strict social rules regarding mourning dress were rigidly observed. Influential French designer Coco Chanel revolutionized fashion by introducing the versatile, affordable, accessible garment. Today, the wearing of black at funerals is in decline, and it isn’t uncommon to see black at weddings—even on the bride! Such flaunting of tradition was unthinkable and scandalous to earlier generations.

Featuring more than 60 dresses from the Missouri History Museum’s world-renowned textile collection, the fun-yet-thought-provoking exhibit “Little Black Dress: From Mourning to Night” explores the subject of mourning, as well as the transition of black from a symbol of grief to a symbol of high fashion. You’ll also see fascinating artifacts—from hair jewelry to tear catchers—that were once a regular part of the mourning process. Plus, you’ll have the chance to share your own memories of your favorite little black dress and even get the opportunity to design your own dress! The exhibit opens this Saturday (April 2nd) at The Missouri History Museum. This is a FREE exhibit and will run through September 5th. For hours and more details, visit the museum’s site HERE

To tie in with this exhibit, We Are Movie Geeks own Tom Stockman (that’s me!) will be delivering an illustrated talk at the museum on the TOP TEN BLACK DRESSES IN THE MOVIES. It’s like one of our Top Ten lists in lecture form! I’ve chosen the top ten dresses in movie history. Who will wear number one ?!?! Find out Tuesday April 5th at 10:30am at Lee Auditorium inside the Missouri History Museum (Lindell and DeBaliviere in Forest Park, St. Louis, Missouri). The talk will be part of Johnny Rabbitt’s history series at the Museum and I am one of four speakers invited to lecture about the history and cultural significance of the black dress! (note: I’m speaking last, so my talk will likely start around 11:30 in case you’re running late)

Who wore it best?!?! Who will make the top ten?!?! (hint – it’s NONE of the actresses pictured in this post!) See you Tuesday April 5th at 10:30am