Fashion/Lifestyle

HAPPENINGS…..CHICAGO HISTORY MUSEUM/COSTUME COUNCIL…THREADS OF A NATION: PRESERVING PRESIDENTIAL CLOTHING

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I’m very excited to share the information about the upcoming Chicago History Museum exhibition sponsored by the Costume Council. I have been a member for decades and have been involved with many of the exhibitions. The Costume Collection, we support, is one of the largest in the world and houses everything from French Haute Couture to American and European ready to wear to Chicago Sports memorabilia to Sally Rand’s fans to rare historical US president’s garments and even a garment attributed to Mary Todd Lincoln!

At the opening party, on October 22nd from 6 to 9 at the Museum, (open to the public on October 24th), you will be treated to a presentation by historian, Timothy Long, whose knowledge of clothing is unsurpassed! This is one way we celebrate our Nation’s 250 Anniversary with what the Costume Council does best…show history through the garments that were worn through the decades and, therefore, made history!

From the Museum….

“The Costume Council of the Chicago History Museum invites you to the opening night celebration of Threads of a Nation: Preserving Presidential Clothing, an exhibition that brings together remarkable garments worn by George Washington, John Adams, and Abraham Lincoln, as well as personal effects and relevant historical documents.  Tickets→

As the nation observes its 250th anniversary this year, we examine US history through the clothes of those who helped shape it and discover how fashion, politics, and personal identity became woven into the story of a new nation.

The evening begins with a presentation by fashion historian and curator Timothy Long, who will explore one of the Museum’s most treasured objects. For over a century, the Chicago History Museum has held a suit of black silk velvet worn by George Washington. Drawing on years of his research in the leading repositories of the nation’s history, this evening reassembles a wardrobe long scattered—and asks what it reveals about the nation’s first president.

Following the presentation, enjoy cocktails and hors d’oeuvres while exploring Threads of a Nation at your own pace. Museum staff will be on hand throughout the exhibition to answer questions and share additional insight on the objects on display. Guests also have the opportunity to participate in an exciting selection of auction offerings throughout the evening.

About the Presenter 

Timothy Long is a fashion historian and curator who has spent his career reading history through what people wore. A former curator at the Chicago History Museum and the Museum of London, he has created more than twenty exhibitions on both sides of the Atlantic, including projects for the Museum at the Fashion Institute of Technology in New York and the San Diego History Center, and has written on dress and the decorative arts, including for V&A Publishing and the British Museum Technical Research Bulletin.

For many years he has pursued an investigation into the surviving clothing of George Washington, following it across collections in the United States and Britain. He recently held a fellowship at the George Washington Presidential Library at Mount Vernon and now holds one at Sulgrave Manor, Washington’s ancestral home in the United Kingdom.”

Schedule

5:30 p.m. – Pre-Event VIP Champagne Reception and meet and greet with Timothy Long
6:00 p.m. – Doors open, cocktails and hors d’oeuvres served, silent auction bidding begins 
6:30 p.m. – Presentation by Timothy Long 
7:00  p.m. – Reception and self-guided exhibition viewing 
8:15 p.m. – Bidding for silent auction concludes 
8:30 p.m. – Silent auction winners announced 
9:00 p.m. – Event concludes 

Co-Chairs: Anika Allen and Katie Beard

Event Committee: Moni Adorjan, Athena Golianis, Courtney Hopkins, Karen Peters, Frank Rubel, Carol Seeling, and Karen Zupko

Sponsors of Style

George Washington Sponsor

Liz Stiffel

Abraham Lincoln Sponsors

D. Elizabeth Price
The Shearson Family
VLS Private Foundation
Richard and Diane Weinberg

John Adams Benefactors

Pamella and Alfredo Capitanini
Karen Peters and Charles Frank
Heritage Auctions
Alicia and David Schafer
Karen Zupko and Mike McCahon
Carlette McMullan
Lyssa Mashek Piette

Pattern Friends

David Hiller and Darcy Evon
Courtney and Tobin Hopkins
Neiman Marcus
Rhonda Marcucci
Frank J. Rubel III

Threads Patrons

Anika Allen and Baird Capital
Constance K. Barkley
Katie Beard
Kathleen M. Boege
Jonathon and Jacqueline Cwiok
Bon French
Athena Golianis
Vicki Hood
Katherine Klehr
Lissette Cortes Lade and David Lade
Betty Latson
Lizzy Lopez
Diane Lovejoy
Erica C. Meyer
Randolph Street Market
Cheryl Tama Oblander and Scott Oblander

In-Kind Sponsors

  Connie Barkley     Elysium MedSpa     Kissyboo

Knee Deep Vintage     Lady Bug Vintage     Rhonda Marcucci

MS Collections        Space 519      Viva La Med Spa

Conservation of the presidential costumes and objects is being supported in part by a federal Save America’s Treasures grant administered by the Institute of Museum and Library Services.


Contact Melinda at mccrary@chicagohistory.org to learn more about exhibition sponsorships 

BOOKS…BOOKS…BOOKS: THE WINDSOR AFFAIR

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By now you probably know I’m a major anglophile….so when I heard that one of my most favorite authors, Melanie Benjamin, had written a historical novel about Elizabeth, The Queen Mother and “That Woman” Wallis Simpson, the Duchess of Windsor, I immediately asked her to join me in conversation for my monthly nenasnotes The Fashion Book Club! To my joy she agreed and we recently had our get together. It was a fascinating discussion about two historical figures we thought we knew so much about….somehow Melanie found so much more for us to learn.

When she realized that there wasn’t a novel about them she set to the task and began intensive research. Obviously historical facts are historical facts but understand this is a fictional interpretation….the facts on their own are captivating enough but the fiction narrative enhances them. This is not a book to skim through rather it’s one that draws you in and you want to linger. I so enjoyed it I read it twice…I don’t do that! I also am a huge fan of holding a book in my hands, of course, in this day and age (and having a monthly discussion group) I do often rely on ebooks!

I encourage you to read this entertaining, eye opening account of two very strong women and the world around them…married to fascinating brothers who have held our attention for decades, (sound familiar!). I loved everything about the book….and I can’t wait for you to enjoy it as well….my very favorite part is the very last page…brought tears to my eyes (not easily done, I must admit!). Bravo Melanie I can’t wait to read your next adventure!

Melanie Benjamin is a prize-winning novelist and New York Times bestselling author of California Golden, The Children’s Blizzard, Mistress of the Ritz, The Girls in the Picture, The Swans of Fifth Avenue, The Aviator’s Wife, The Autobiography of Mrs.Tom Thumb, and Alice I Have Been.

I hope there is still availability for The Lake Forest Book Store event…here are the details…

Join the Lake Forest Book Store at The Lake Forest Club for a luncheon with author Melanie Benjamin as she discusses her new novel:

THE WINDSOR AFFAIR

Thursday, September 3rd, 2026, 11:30am-1:30pm

554 N. Westmoreland Road, Lake Forest, IL 60045

$80 includes lunch and a copy of the book

Please call to RSVP: 847-234-4420

MUSINGS…FEELING NOSTALGIC!

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I know I haven’t posted on any of my social media forever…sorry about that…but today I’m feeling nostalgic. You see it was 70 years ago that a very young Nena (who was a couple of weeks away from graduating high school!) put on her hat and gloves and took the Outer Drive bus from Evanston to Michigan Avenue in Chicago to start applying for a summer job in the retail field! First stop, on this new adventure, Saks Fifth Avenue at 669 North Michigan Avenue. By the way, my next stop was to be Marshall Fields!

The cropped photo on the right is how the building(s) looked in 1956…the photo on the left is the addition long before we moved across the street to Chicago Place in September 1990…which is in the process of closing three years short of the 100th year of being on Michigan Avenue…heartbreaking!

I had an interview with the Personnel Manager (yes, that it was called then, now Human Resources!) and was asked if I could start the next day, a Saturday. Needless to say I was gobsmacked and explained I couldn’t start that quickly…we comprised on the next Saturday. I was assigned to the Young Elite Sportswear department….and so my time with Saks Fifth Avenue began. What was to be a summer job turned into 53 year life of amazing events. Most certainly a hell of a long summer job!

I sold for a year learning every detail of how to work with clients…ran a very good “book” (how many sales you had!), FYI I was the youngest, at the time, SFA associate and when I retired the longest tenured employee in the company….I’m sure both have now be overridden!

After that first year I had planned on going to a fashion merchandising school in New York City…circumstances changed when I was offered the position of Assistant Fashion and Publicity Director….a position I couldn’t turn down…so there you have it in a condensed version.

I know I’ve posted this before but here I am with Kay Walsh Dobson, my boss. Notice the wall behind us…I decoupaged Vogue and Bazaar images in the ten foot wide, eight foot tall wall. Kay is sitting at my desk reviewing the script for an upcoming fashion show. I wrote all her copy. I look extremely young, which I was, and I can describe the outfit I was wearing…craziness!

Two decisions that made my passion for the world of fashion realities. Decisions I never regretted. I’m not going rant about how I feel about Saks Global..!it would be pointless!

HAPPENINGS…CHRISTMAS IN BLUE ISLAND 2025

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What to do this Saturday….I’ve got you covered….take the short drive to Blue Island, Illinois…you will feel like you are visiting a Hallmark Christmas movie! The place is filled with small town charm! Remember I posted a fund raiser for this event a few weeks ago….the money raised funds the various activities to keep them free for the kiddos! Of course there are plenty of options for food, drink and shopping! The day is a delightful festival for the kiddies followed by a delightful lights parade. Of course, Santa and Mrs. Claus wouldn’t miss the celebration nor should you! Join the fun you won’t be disappointed!

PROFILE: STEVEN STOLMAN UPDATE

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STEVEN STOLMAN

I did a blog post on Steven in January 2022 this is what he is up to now….back to Ready-to-Wear! Let’s discuss.

I do believe by now you know my philosophy of clothing….wear your clothes don’t let them wear you! I’m a classicist and Steven’s Autumn/Winter Collection 2025 is exactly that! Classics with modernity…timeless with a subtle twist or two. I believe he feels like I do…buy pieces that can work into your wardrobe for many seasons and years.

He presented his Collection last week at a private event at a private Chicago club on “real” women not models…I hate to tell you models are real! Using various sizes and ages, although most of them were very young…I think his garments are ageless and many looks this blogger would wear. He has partnered with Pendleton for the sweaters,

Photo by Katy Cunningham inspired by the iconic Cecil Beaton image we all admire
Cecil Beaton photo,1948, of the incredible Charles James garments!
Photographer KatyCunningham.com

Here is a quote from Steven…….

“All the pieces in the pic are from my Autumn/Winter 2025 collection, worn by a marvelous group of women including college students Lucy Bulley and Bunny Rutledge, Chicago business execs Mara Maddocks Williams and Anika Allen, and First Lady of Kentucky Britainy Beshear.

This was not only the relaunch of my eponymous label, after a 20 year absence, but also the reveal of my informal collaboration with Pendleton, the renowned American woolens mill from Portland, OR.”

Interested…go to Steven’s website for more information…stevenstolman.com

I wonder what Steven has up his white shirt sleeve for Spring 2026….stay tuned!

Many thanks to my dear friend, Pamella Capitanini, for making this special event happen!

ANATOMY OF AN AUCTION PART 4: MAUREEN DWYER SMITH’S DIVERSE AND EXTENSIVE COLLECTION OF COUTURE CLOTHING AND HANDBAGS!

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MAUREEN DWYER SMITH

By now you know I love doing posts of upcoming auctions….it is a first, I believe, for me to feature some highlights from a huge major collection by a collector of such distinctive designers… but also worn by a major Chicagoan and someone I knew and worked with on events. How fun! I’m very excited to be able to give you an exclusive peak into this true fashion collector’s wardrobe in a once in a lifetime opportunity to add some of these collectibles to your own wardrobe! Bidding begins on Friday, August 29, 2025. Bid soon and often! http://www.hindmanauctions.com

Here is a brief bio of Maureen Dwyer Smith…

“Maureen served as Chair of the Board of the Joffrey Ballet, where she also founded its Women’s Board. Her leadership was widely credited with helping to establish a sound financial and managerial foundation for the Joffrey.” (a nenasnote….I produced many events to benefit the Joffrey, as you know one of my beloved institutions, while I was at Saks Fifth Avenue, Chicago…under the guidence of the dynamic Ms. Smith!)

“Maureen’s dedication to the arts and education extended to numerous other institutions. She was a Trustee of the Field Museum, the Chicago Public Library Foundation, the Museum of Contemporary Art, and After School Matters. She also co-authored 100 Masterpieces, the Art Institute of Chicago’s centennial publication. Additionally, she served on the Women’s Boards of the Field Museum, the Art Institute, Rush University Medical Center, Northwestern University, the Alliance Française, the Goodman Theatre, the Lincoln Park Zoo, and the Shirley Ryan Ability Lab. Her commitment to civic engagement earned her shared awards from the Harvard Club of Chicago and DePaul University.”

I thought it would be interesting to include some of the designers .featured in the auction at work on their creations….I paraphrase Bette Davis….”fashion” your seat belts you are in for an incredible ride…

Let’s start with the wonderful world of CHANEL designed by the extraordinary talent of Karl Lagerfeld…here a VERY small sampling of what is in the auction as collected by a fashion connoisseur…

KARL LAGERFELD SHARING ONE OF HIS SKETCHES
EMILIO PUCCI
One of his exquisitely beaded pieces

And more……

ZANDRA RHODES…A FAVORITE DESIGNER OF PHILIP MILLER WHEN HE HEADED MARSHALL FIELD’S SHE CAME TO CHICAGO OFTEN WITH HER UNIQUE CREATIONS
RALPH RUCCI AT WORK… HIS CREATIONS ARE MASTERPIECES OF CREATIVITY AND WORKMANSHIP





JUDITH LEIBER
TOMATO MINAUDIÈRE
EGGPLANT MINAUDIÈRE
TULIP MINAUDIÈRE

A SELECTION OF NANCY GONZALES BAGS

Here is a quote I wanted to share with you…

“Freeman’s | Hindman is proud to present The Couture Collection of Maureen Dwyer Smith, an esteemed Chicago civic leader and philanthropist. This remarkable collection showcases garments by iconic designers such as Ralph Rucci, Karl Lagerfeld for Chanel, and Emilio Pucci, alongside coveted handbags by Chanel, Judith Leiber, and Hermès.Select pieces from Mrs. Smith’s refined wardrobe curated with both elegance and practicality in mind will be featured across three luxury auctions: Fall Fashion, Holiday Lux, and The Holiday Edit. More than a style icon, Maureen Dwyer Smith was a dedicated patron of the arts, founder of the Joffrey Ballet Women’s Board, and a beloved figure in Chicago’s cultural and philanthropic circles.”

Tanner C. Branson, Associate Vice President, Head of Department: Luxury Handbags & Couture…FREEMAN’S | HINDMAN

Here are the dates for the upcoming auctions…

Fall Fashion – September 12th

The Holiday Edit – November 18th

Holiday Lux – December 5th

http://www.hindmanauctions.com

DANCE…DANCE…DANCE: JOFFREY SEASON OPENING…CARMEN!

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By now you know I am obsessed with The Joffrey Ballet and have been since its beginning…..they never cease to amaze me…..look what you have to look forward to and culture is so important to us in these uncertain times! Get your tickets NOW!

THE JOFFREY BALLET OPENS ITS 70TH ANNIVERSARY SEASON WITH THE U.S. PREMIERE OF LIAM SCARLETT’S CARMEN, SEPTEMBER 18 – 28, 2025

(August 7, 2025 – CHICAGO) The Joffrey Ballet opens its 70th anniversary season with the U.S. Premiere of Liam Scarlett’s Carmen, a tale of love, betrayal, and defiance set within the gritty confines of a cigarette factory in 1930s Spain. Amid the chaos of a nation on the brink of civil war, the uncompromising and seductive Carmen, who insists on loving whom she chooses, meets Don José, whose consuming devotion ignites a blaze of passion and peril. From the choreographer of the critically acclaimed Frankenstein, Scarlett infuses new depth into the timeless story of a woman who dares to live on her own terms. Carmen takes place over two weekends, in ten performances only, at the historic Lyric Opera House, 20 North Upper Wacker Drive, from September 18 – 28, 2025.

 

In this fiery ballet adaptation of the world’s most popular opera, Scarlett brings new intensity to Carmen, a performance that pulsates with life and ends in tragedy. Set to Georges Bizet’stantalizing score, Scarlett’s Carmen premiered at the Norwegian National Ballet in 2015 and has been praised for its rich, raucous, and profoundly moving portrayal of passion, betrayal, and emotional unraveling.

 

Scarlett’s signature focus on evocative storytelling is matched by the striking designs of award-winning British designer Jon Bausor. Internationally recognized for his ability to create atmospheric, emotionally resonant worlds, Bausor’s raw, industrial set and expressive costumes amplify the drama and intensity of the classic story, transforming the stage into a tempest of desire and destruction.

“It’s a privilege to open our season with the U.S. premiere of Liam Scarlett’s Carmen, an evocative and theatrical masterwork,” said Ashley Wheater MBE, The Mary B. Galvin Artistic Director.“Carmen is fearless—magnetic, passionate, and impossible to contain. Liam’s choreography demands both physical rigor and emotional depth, pushing our artists to their fullest potential and captivating audiences in the process. This production sets the tone for a powerful season.”

 

“There’s never been a better time to experience the Joffrey,” said Greg Cameron, President and CEO. “After a record-breaking season, we begin our 70th anniversary and 30th year in Chicago with boldness and momentum. Carmen lights the fuse for a season that defines who we are: a Company in motion, reaching beyond expectations. This year, we step into a new chapter at the Lyric Opera House, one defined by scale, ambition, and vision. It’s a threshold moment for the Joffrey and for our city.”

Carmen features live music performed by the Lyric Opera Orchestra, conducted by Scott Speck,Music Director of The Joffrey Ballet.

 

Special thanks to Carmen Production Sponsors, Holly Palmer Foundation and Max Mara. 

 

Tickets and Schedule
The Joffrey Ballet presents Liam Scarlett’s Carmen from Thursday, September 18-Sunday, September 28, 2025; the full performance schedule is as follows: Thursday, September 18 at 7:30PM; Friday, September 19 at 7:30PM; Saturday, September 20 at 2:00PM and 7:30PM; Sunday, September 21 at 2:00PM; Thursday, September 25 at 7:30PM; Friday, September 26 at 7:30PM; Saturday, September 27 at 2:00PM and 7:30PM; and Sunday, September 28 at 2:00PM.

 

The Joffrey Ballet is the only official seller with the best prices. Be aware of ticket re-sellers offering overpriced or invalid tickets. Tickets are available for purchase at the Lyric Opera Box Office, located at 20 N. Upper Wacker Dr., by telephone at 312.386.8905, or online at joffrey.org.

 

About The Joffrey Ballet 
The Joffrey Ballet is one of the premier dance companies in the world today, with a reputation for boundary-breaking performances for 70 years. The Joffrey repertoire is an extensive collection of all-time classics, modern masterpieces, and original works.

 

Founded in 1956 by pioneers Robert Joffrey and Gerald Arpino, the Joffrey remains dedicated to artistic expression, innovation, and first-rate education and engagement programming. The Joffrey Ballet continues to thrive under The Mary B. Galvin Artistic Director Ashley Wheater MBE and President and CEO Greg Cameron.

 

The Joffrey Ballet is grateful for the support of its 2025–2026 70th Anniversary Season Sponsors: The Abbott Fund, Alphawood Foundation Chicago, Daniel and Pamella DeVos Foundation, Gallagher, The Florian Fund, Anne L. Kaplan, and Robert and Penelope Steiner Family Foundation.

 

Live Music Sponsors Sandy and Roger Deromedi, Sage Foundation, and The Marina and Arnold Tatar Fund for Live Music. The Joffrey also acknowledges our Season Partners: ATHLETICO and Chicago Athletic Clubs.

 

For more information on The Joffrey Ballet and its programs, visit joffrey.org. Connect with the Joffrey on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn.

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Image: The Joffrey Ballet presents the US Premiere of Liam Scarlett’s Carmen, Photo by Carolyn McCabe