Each featured gown is part of the museum's permanent collection and has a strong tie to the city's history and present.
Tim Long, the curator of the costume collection at the Chicago History Museum goes through tons of special gowns and materials to make the Chic Chicago exhibit a very special event.
Each gown has special attention to detailing and is often a testament to the magnificent draping techniques of past and present couturiers and the luxurious textiles used.
Designers featured in the collection include a gown by 70s fashion icon Roy Halston and a circa 1884 evening gown by Charles Frederick Worth, who carefully crafted his fabrics. Even still fashionable House of Dior is featured, with a1948 day dress designed by Christian Dior himself as part of his famous "New Look."
Each piece shares not only an important place in the history of couture, but a connection to the city of Chicago. Chic Chicago opens September 27, with previews on September 25.