The DAR Museum in Washington, D.C., recently hosted its second annual Women’s History Costume Party, offering a vibrant celebration of historic women and the fashions of their time. The event highlighted the lives of women who may not be widely known but have played meaningful roles throughout American history. Attendees came dressed as notable figures or in attire inspired by past eras, creating an atmosphere rich with tribute and creativity.
Guests moved through the event portraying a wide array of women, from colonial-era fishwives and Mother Earth to tributes to figures like Ruth Bader Ginsburg and Nancy Kerrigan. Isabella Moritz, an educator and fashion specialist at the DAR Museum, joined the festivities in a Regency-style gown and explained the inclusive spirit of the event. With interactive activities like themed bingo and coloring pages, the evening was designed to foster connection and historical appreciation.
The DAR Museum, part of the Daughters of the American Revolution complex, houses one of the largest genealogical libraries in the country. Sarah Kirspel, Coordinator of Museum Engagement, noted that the library assists visitors in tracing their lineage back to Revolutionary-era ancestors, not limited to soldiers but anyone who supported the cause, from farmers to diplomats.
Beyond the party, the museum’s current exhibit, Fighting for Freedom: Black Crafts People and the Pursuit of Independence, draws attention to the contributions of both enslaved and free artisans in American history. One highlight includes a visual register of enslaved individuals who worked on the White House, paired with interactive elements encouraging visitor reflection.
Attendees also included Sarah Walsh, a historical interpreter who portrays Abigail Adams. Walsh, who began reenacting in 2016, emphasized the depth of Adams’ legacy, not just for her advocacy of women’s rights, but for her resilience and partnership with John Adams. Walsh’s work is rooted in authenticity, with costume design informed by period research and dialect coaching.
Another moving portrayal came from author Lisa Neel, who embodied her ancestor Polly Beck. Beck, a Cherokee woman who endured the Trail of Tears and multiple wars, became a symbol tied to the infamous Goingsnake Massacre—a violent event stemming from her murder trial. Neel’s presence at the event was both a personal homage and a call to remember the struggles of Native American women, including the ongoing crisis of missing and murdered Indigenous women. Her choice of red dress underscored this message, contrasting with the traditional “tear dress” often associated with Cherokee history.
The Women’s History Costume Party blended education and celebration, drawing connections between fashion, legacy, and remembrance. With events like these, the DAR Museum continues to bring history to life while inviting new audiences to engage with the past in meaningful, personal ways.
Related Topics
- Cuban Woman Critiques Fashion Choices of Cubans Abroad in Viral TikTok Video
- Fashion Tips to Create the Illusion of Height with Clothing Colors
- Vancouver Fashion Week Returns for Fall/Winter 2025, Featuring a Bold Kidswear Twist
