Sheer chiffon dresses mark the spirit of 1930s summer fashion, and five lovely examples are now on display in the Old Rectory parlor. The gowns are floral prints or flower decorated, and are fully lined with a separate slip or by a full lining of the garment. They are ruffled, sleeveless and have open necklines. These are the gowns that went to the movies, attended ladies’ parties, and celebrated femininity.

Bias draped sheer gowns worn by stars of the cinema were noted for their revealing and clinging design. The Hays Code, a self-imposed set of guidelines applied to most motion pictures and major studios forbidding “nudity in silhouette”, a reaction to the possibilities of the new fabric draping, which slid closely to the body, as well as low necklines, etc. “Ethereal elegance” was the goal of the slim style that revealed the gentle rounds of the bust and hipline, creating a gown that hovered on the body.

Our gowns in the Society collection illustrate the everyday adaptation of the couture clothing of Adrian and Edith Head for stars like Jean Harlowe, but they make a delicious show of ladies’ dresses reflecting the frothy possibilities of silk chiffon. They will be on display through the summer during open hours, 1-4pm Wednesday through Friday, 10-2pm Saturdays. Come and enjoy!