A couple weeks ago I had the pleasure of meeting Kristen Stewart, the Nathalie L. Klaus Curator of Costumes and Textiles at the Valentine museum. Originally from Richmond, Kristen has worked with several great costume collections including the MET Costume Institute before moving back to take the position at the Valentine last fall. Kristen was kind enough to take me on a personal tour of the current Classical Allure: Richmond Style show, and to answer some of my questions.

Libertas – knit garments from the 1970’s, providing freedom of movement for the body.*

Classical Allure is a small but engaging collection of items in an intimate setting that perfectly suits an exhibit showcasing fashion about and belonging to native Richmonders. The focus of the collection are the four goddesses representing Virginia on the state seal, Virtus (virtue / valor), Ceres (agriculture / fertility); Libertas (liberty) and Aeternitas (eternity). Through garments, sculpture…