I Do! Chicago Ties the Knot
Over the past two centuries Americans have increasingly romanticized, standardized, and commercialized weddings. The Chicago History Museum’s expansive costume collection of nearly one thousand wedding gowns, suits, and accessories dating back to the 1720s allowed for the exhibition to unveil a unique view on wedding traditions.
I Do! Chicago Ties the Knot examines how America’s wedding industry emerged, and how Marshall Field & Company along with other retailers embraced a set of common customs and traditions from the past to create a new romantic ideal for weddings that is still followed today.
“In 1924, Marshall Field & Company became the first retail store to offer a bridal registry. They realized the potential of a bride being a customer for not just one day, but a customer for life. These are the kinds of stories we hope to share through this exhibition,” stated Timothy Long, curator of the exhibition.The exhibition features approximately 50 costumes including bridal and wedding party ensembles, along with other artifacts. Visitors will see bridal gowns in other colors besides the classic white.
“The color white was very difficult to produce. It was at times considered an ostentatious color that women could only wear once. Most women opted for a dress they could wear again,” said Long.
Visitors will also discover the meaning behind veils, bouquets, and rings among other traditions.
The Museum will host a history pub crawl on November 18 where participants can wear their old wedding gown, tux, or bridesmaid dress while learning about the roots of wedding traditions and champagne. The exhibit, I do! Chicago Ties the Knot, can be viewed until January 3, 2011 at the Chicago Museum of History.
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