Mount Mary University’s Fashion Archives

The Mount Mary Fashion Archives consists of approximately 10,000 couture and ready-to-wear garments and accessories, including furs, shoes, hats, gloves and more from the 18th century to the present. Today’s presentation will feature Hildegard’s collection and her personal connection with Mount Mary and with Wisconsin. During the mid-twentieth century Hildegarde was reportedly the highest paid cabaret performer in the world, earning $17,500 per week. While traveling for performances, her clothing required 23 pieces of luggage. Amanda Cacich is our guide through this marvelous collection. She is the Curator of the Fashion Archive at Mount Mary and an instructor of the Fashion History Course. She is passionate about bringing history to life through material culture, especially historic costumes.