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      Past Exhibition: Made It

      Section 4: Making Choices

      The pace of women defining themselves within society accelerated in the 20th century. They embodied a variety of roles and lifestyles and chose clothing that complemented their sense of self. In 1938, a Los Angeles County judge sent kindergarten teacher Helen Hulick to jail because she wore slacks in the courtroom. Moments like this fueled the growing women’s liberation movement and heavily influenced fashion in the postwar period.

      The modern woman no longer felt beholden to styles dictated by the patriarchal media or other outlets that didn’t align with her philosophies—and designers reciprocated. Women scrutinized their role in society and what they demanded from their clothing.

      Diane von Fürstenberg, wrap dress, 1975. Adnan Ege Kutay Collection. © 2019 Peabody Essex Museum. Photo by Bob Packert/PEM.

      Diane von Fürstenberg, wrap dress, 1975. Adnan Ege Kutay Collection. © 2019 Peabody Essex Museum. Photo by Bob Packert.

      A new range of styles reflected the fast-paced lives and needs of a vast and international consumer base. From mid-century on, the decades saw the rise of the high-status fashion designer, body-conscious maternity wear, and the almost universal adoption of pants—with and without pockets.

      Diane von Fürstenberg, wrap dress, 1975. Adnan Ege Kutay Collection. © 2019 Peabody Essex Museum. Photo by Bob Packert/PEM.

      Explore the sections

      Section 1: Breaking In

      Past Exhibition: Made It

      Section 1: Breaking in

      Section 2: Gaining Momentum

      Past Exhibition: Made It

      Section 2: Gaining Momentum

      Section 3: Seismic Shifts

      Past Exhibition: Made It

      Section 3: Seismic Shifts

      Section 5: Designing for Change

      Past Exhibition: Made It

      Section 5: Designing for Change

      A woman wearing a golden plaid dress in front of a lake with the oceans in the background

      Past Exhibition

      Made It: The Women Who Revolutionized Fashion

      November 21, 2020 to March 14, 2021