Ever been to a vintage hat show? If not, you’re missing out. Our hat show is just one of a slate of vintage fashion shows we present for community groups, women’s groups, retirement communities and more. They are a fun combination of fashion facts and history—with a smidge of light-hearted playacting for good measure. The show uses only the women’s hats and the accessories that went with them, showcasing chapeaus all the way from the 1860s to the 1960s. Hat shows were added to the Golden Oldies line-up over forty years ago.
“The hat shows are a good option for people who need a shorter program, have less space, or have a tight budget for program expenses,” said Barbara Griswold, current hat show director. “Most people are surprised at how much history they learn, and we get a lot of comments about the fun.”
The Golden Oldies program was started over 50 years ago because so many amazing pieces of fashion history were ending up in the Goodwill donation bins. Now vintage fashions (and accessories) are donated specifically to the collection through a whole separate program. The guild is committed to doing a good job of curating these marvelous garments and accessories, both by repairing and preserving them but also by sharing them with the public via its fashion shows.
To book a show or donate a vintage item, call 253-573-6765 or go to our webpage to learn more!