Home

Welcome to the TXMD Historic Costume Collection

History of Collection

The Textiles, Merchandising, and Design (TXMD) Historic Costume Collection was founded in 1988 at the encouragement of the Fashion Institute of Technology curator as inspiration to build a collection for students and the public in Tennessee. This teaching collection includes over 800 garments and accessories from1790 to the present, providing students with many hands-on learning experiences. Having regular access to different silhouettes and designs serves as inspiration for many research and creative projects throughout students’ academic careers.

Mission

The Textiles, Merchandising, and Design (TXMD) Historic Costume Collection is a teaching tool to educate and inspire students on dress and its historical, aesthetic, and cultural influences.

Vision

The TXMD Historic Costume Collections will lead in educating MTSU and the greater community on historical dress by providing meaningful service and outreach opportunities.

Goals

• Increase the reach and impact of the collection by digitizing all holdings and presenting them in an online database.
• Provide additional student opportunities to integrate historical inspiration and artifact research into course projects, exhibitions, or events.
• Create professional-quality exhibitions and displays that demonstrate excellence in research and serve to educate others on historical dress.
• Establish a group of supporters and provide service and volunteer opportunities, increasing community engagement.