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Illinois Fashion History

Researching, documenting, and sharing the people, organizations, and industry behind fashion in Illinois.

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Illinois Fashion History is an independent historical preservation and storytelling initiative focused on the people, organizations, and industry that shaped fashion in Illinois. Through research, documentation, publications, and public programs, it works to preserve stories that might otherwise be lost.

  • Historical research

  • Oral history and story collection

  • Digitization and archival support

  • Commemorative publications

  • Public programs and moderated discussions

  • Speaking and panels

Services

Digital Collections & Courses

CHIC in Chicago
A project exploring and presenting histories connected to Chicago fashion and its wider industry context in Illinois.

AIBI 40th Anniversary Book
Research, writing, and editorial development for a commemorative publication documenting AIBI’s history and community.

Journal

Blog
Why Illinois Fashion History Begins Here
Why Illinois Fashion History Begins Here

A family farm in Will County, agricultural-history research, and unexpected fashion advertisements helped shape the beginning of Illinois Fashion History.

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Follow Our Ongoing Discoveries

📸 From the Archives: March 21, 1999 @chicagosuntimes Spotlighting Caroline Becker Joss and Rose Becker of Caroline Rose with model Beth Cohoon ( @fordmodels Chicago). Their spring collection masterfully blended athletic influences with classic silh
Hey there, fashion lovers! 👋 I’m Jess Crane, and welcome to Illinois Fashion History! 🎉 I’ve spent around 20 years in the Chicagoland fashion scene, and I’m excited to mix my love for fashion design with historical preservation. W
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