I always wondered how women sat down in their hoop skirts. And now we all know:

I’ve dismantled the entire fashions display, construction has begun on a new wall for the exhibit, and I’m sorting through a pile of cottons to create a new display in time for the spring opening of the museum.

I photographed each dress as I removed it from the mannequins — learning a lot about historical garment construction as I did so.  I had to wear a mask while I did so, the dust is so thick — it’s visible in many of the images.  I’ve posted selected photos on Flickr, so if you’re interested in antique clothing, head on over for a look.