1926 Dress

Date: ca. 1926 - Material: Chiffon - Accession: 2001.191.0001.0312

In 1923 the Broadway show “Running Wild” introduced the soon-to-be popular tune, The Charleston, sparking a dance craze.

The shift dress, such as this, silhouette was first worn in the 1920s by “flappers”--young women who were defying social norms. The classic flapper dress was a short shift dress, often decorated with fringe or other types of embellishment. The shift dress became popular because it was comfortable and easy in which to dance. This new silhouette was a breakaway from the cinched-waist styles that had been in vogue for women.

Donated to the University of Illinois Bevier Historic Costume Collection by Mrs. Ben Perry. Property transfer to the Illinois State Museum, 2001.