#32. Pauline Trigère's Collection at the Western Reserve Historical Society WRHS

Visitng WRHS for Pauline Trigère archive resesarch

Curator Patty. Pauline Trigere

Pauline Trigere cape and dress

Pauline Trigere cape and gown

Pauline Trigere cape

Pauline Trigere ddress

Pauline Trigere dress

Patty and Jessica at WRHS

Browsing through the Trigère collection at Western Reserve Historical Society (WRHS) in Cleveland, I was reminded of Pauline's uncanning ability for creating versatile garments that transcended time and trends. Take, for instance, a yellow wool dress and floral print coat ensemble that I also own and have utilized in a fashion photo shoot in Paris & London [Here]. This ensemble was from Trigère's spring 1968 collection. The unique applique cut-out from the floral prints inserted onto the waist of the dress to bring together the ensemble, demonstrating Trigère's ability to create signature twin pieces that remain timeless even after nearly six decades.

The WRHS Museum curator, Patty Edmonson, organized my visit. She assist me in examining the Trigere garments from the extensive WRHS collection. I recognized several outfits from the Kent State Trigere's Fifty Year Retrospective Exhibition, where they were previously on loan, as well as numerous others from past fashion publications.

Since no discussion of Trigère's collection is complete without mentioning her signature wool capes. These capes come in various patterns, colors, and silhouettes, showcasing Pauline's signature looks and her draping prowness. One of the most notable was a grey and ivory wool cape and dress ensemble. The grey wool fabrication interlaced with ivory color threads caught my eye as soon as I saw it. I recognized it was featured in Harpers Bazaar's September 1961 issue. The outfit was worn by a model standing next to the famed architect Edward Durell Stone, who designed the Museum of the Modern Arts and John F. Kennedy's Center for the Performing Arts. I remembered it well because it was part of the series of 4 editorial from the infamous "Trigère and Controversy" series from the scandal resulted from Pauline hired a black model for a major New York runway presentation. To capitalize on the incident, Pauline had series of four brilliant photographs created for her fall campaign that year, you can see separate blog with Gore Vidal, Basil Rathbone, and Mike Wallace, all standing next to models wearing a Trigère.

"Architecture and Trigère

Edward Durell Stone, architect of distinction, spotted this Trigère coat costume by its characteristic line and design. Just as the personality and originality of a Stone building are unmistakable to the connoisseur of architecture, the fashion savant never needs a label to tell a Trigère." It was the first time I came across this documented ensemble in person and I was absolutely thrilled.

During my visit, a local friend joined me, and she was equally impressed by the collection. We both marveled at WRHS's wide range of collection and the sheer breadth of historical costumes. To top off the day, Patty generously extended a private tour of the current Fashion Exhibition, "After Dark," for us. The exhibition, which featured a variety of garments designed for evening wear, was a fitting end to our visit. Patty as our guide added depth and context to the pieces on display, making the viewing so much more enjoyable and informative.

Visiting the Western Reserve Historical Society was a truly enlightening experience. Being able to see and touch the garments, understand the evolution of her designs, and appreciate the intricacies of her work was a rare opportunity. I am grateful to Patty for facilitating this visit, and I look forward to exploring more of Trigère's work in the future! If you are ever in Cleveland, be sure to stop by WRHS for their exciting collections! You can check out their wonderful fashion exhibitions [here].

Visit date: July 1, 2024.