Cultural Couture: The 20th Century Fashion History Museum Exhibit
HLOs: 
By Bhagyashri Sisodia, Digital Business Management student
On December 4th, Humber’s new Cultural Hub hosted the 2024 Fashion History Museum Exhibit, an unforgettable celebration of global fashion and cultural heritage. Titled Memories, the exhibit was curated by Fashion Management students and showcased a stunning array of 20th-century fashion artifacts, blending history, culture, and creativity into a captivating experience.
The event was spearheaded by Francesca D’Angelo, professor and program coordinator of the Bachelor of Commerce – Fashion Management degree program, with support from Hanadi Alnawab, professor and program coordinator of the Bachelor of Commerce – Digital Business Management program, and Bruce Sinclair, Associate Dean of Business, Marketing, Fashion, and Beauty. Together, they brought to life an exhibit that embodied the theme of a “global village,” uniting diverse cultures under one roof.
Upon entering the exhibit, attendees were transported into a heritage-rich museum setting. The display featured an impressive collection of garments, accessories, and artifacts from over 20 countries, including Bhutan, Brazil, Canada, China, Croatia, the Dominican Republic, Eritrea, France, Germany, Hungary, Italy, India, Kyrgyzstan, Mexico, Nigeria, Peru, Portugal, Russia, Ukraine, the UAE, the USA, the UK, Uzbekistan, and Vietnam. Each piece told a unique story, offering a sociological narrative that highlighted the traditions and histories behind the items.
What truly stood out was the passion and dedication of the students presenting their exhibits. Their enthusiasm was palpable as they shared anecdotes and insights into the cultural significance of their pieces. From family heirlooms passed down through generations to garments representing diverse walks of life, each exhibit captivated visitors with its rich backstory.
A particularly innovative aspect of the event was the integration of fashion and technology. Each item on display was accompanied by a QR code, which, when scanned, directed visitors to a dedicated webpage with detailed descriptions of the artifacts. This interactive approach allowed attendees to engage more deeply with the exhibits, enhancing the overall experience.
The event was further elevated by live orchestral music performed by Humber students, creating a vibrant and immersive atmosphere. Faculty members, students, and fashion enthusiasts alike gathered to celebrate the culmination of the Fashion Management students’ term-end projects, making it a truly memorable occasion.
As the evening concluded, attendees left with a profound appreciation for the power of fashion to tell stories and bridge cultures. The exhibit was a masterful blend of classic artifacts and modern storytelling, bringing to life the origins, histories, and cultural significance of each piece.
For those who missed the event, the exhibit is accessible online through a website developed by Digital Business Management students. Serving as a growing repository of the showcased items, the website ensures that the collection remains available for exploration.
Congratulations to the Fashion Management students for their outstanding work on this project. With such a remarkable showcase this year, anticipation is already building for next year’s exhibit, which promises to be even more extraordinary.
