The Costume Society of Ontario is an association dedicated to exploring the design, development and import of fashion throughout the ages: the influence of dress on society and the reflection of technology, culture and thought on fashion design and display. Far from being dry and academic, this exploration opens a fascinating look into how people express themselves through clothing and what this says about them as individuals and as a culture.
The Costume Society of Ontario membership includes designers, costumers, collectors, performers, professional historians, museum workers, devoted amateurs and anyone interested in aspects of dress from tip (hats) to toe (shoes) ! Members explore and discuss all periods of design, fabrics, manufacturing, accessories and accoutrements, delve into the influence of technology, war, ethnicity and culture on the creation of fabric, design, form, function and frivolity!
The Costume Society of Ontario (CSO) is committed, through lectures, seminars, workshops, field trips and publications, to explore the fascinating world of body covering.
The mission of the CSO is:
- to promote education in all aspects of dress to individuals who share an interest in costume or textile history, theatrical costuming and related source materials
- to encourage the preservation of historic costume and related source materials
We hold no regular meetings (other than an annual general meeting). Rather, we have often met at sites of interest to our members —backstage at the National Ballet’s costuming facilities (to learn about ballet costuming), in a lecture room at the U of T or OCA (to hear about blondes in the 20th Century from Marilyn to Madonna) or Hampton Court in London, England (to talk to the Royal Embroiderers). Lectures might be in a room at the U of T or OCA,or a church meeting room. Because the CSO is volunteer-based, and not-for-profit, all of these events are offered at reasonable costs to our members.
In addition to our schedule of lectures, seminars, workshops or field trips, members also receive the Costume Journal twice a year, filled with upcoming events, new resource materials, book reviews and much more. The CSO News will also arrive several times a year. You will also receive an annual Membership Directory of our members and their individual areas of interest. The Publications Page can give you an impression of these benefits of membership.
Whether your interest is academic or personal, whether you are a curator or a collector, the Costume Society can expand your knowledge of, and fascination with, human finery. Visit the Membership Page for details on how to become a member.
