Airships, locomotives, and corsets: the Victorian Era gave the world technological advancement, the birth of science fiction, and opulent fashion. The modern steampunk trend takes inspiration from this bygone age, especially in its dress.
Featured is work by designers Paige Gardner, Amber O’Boyle Kulp, and Colleen O’Neill through a selection of women’s and men’s costumes and accessories that illustrate the eclectic and individualistic nature of steampunk fashion today. To provide a historical context for the six costume ensembles on display, 19th-century Victorian Era clothing and accessories from the Morris Museum’s permanent collection have been integrated into the installation, highlighting the design connections and deconstructions that oftentimes serve as the inspiration for steampunk costumers.
Discover elements of the steampunk style alongside 19th-century