Fashion isn’t just about what we wear, but why we wear it. Clothing isn’t just something to keep us warm, but an indicator of how we live our lives. This summer the Museum of Wisconsin Art in West Bend, Wisconsin is featuring “A State of Fashion” now through September 17th. I was asked to do a fashion talk there last week and was so impressed with the museum that I wanted to share it with you through my photographs below in the slideshow.

There are many components to this presentation, but one common thread is that all of the work and featured designers have a connection to Wisconsin, or the area. If you’re interested in the form, as well as the function, of what we wear this would be a fantastic day trip and it’s an easy drive from the Southeastern Wisconsin or Northern Illinois area.

The Roddis Collection shows us the clothing and style of one family over many decades, from the turn of the century to the 1960s. It’s fascinating that they preserved their wardrobes so beautifully!

Contemporary Threads is an overview of today's fashion-forward designers with pieces that represent whimsical, artistic expression. This display will be on view only until August 20th and is located on the sun-filled main floor of the ultra-modern museum.

Also on display are Florence Eiseman: Designing Childhood for the American Century, and Wisconsin photographer Daniel Arnold whose portraits of everyday people show us that style is in the eye of the beholder. 

Get inspired, and take a summer road trip with family and friends to discover that clothing has meaning to ALL of us, and represents our past, present, and future! Thanks so much for supporting Goodwill’s mission and enjoy the summer!