Belle Époque Fashion and its Contemporary Influences

Chicago fashion designer Maria Pinto and fashion historian Timothy Long discuss the history and styles of Belle Époque fashion and why it is still à la mode today.

Doors open at 5:30 pm.

About the Speakers

Timothy Long is a fashion curator, historian, and author with twenty years of experience working with the world’s premiere collections of antique, vintage and contemporary clothing, textiles, and decorative arts. Whether its archaeological textiles found in London’s mud, or haute couture worn by an heiress, he connects and inspires people through fashion, style, and history. Long currently works as the Director of Museum Business Development and Corporate Client Services at Freeman’s | Hindman.

Maria Pinto is a fashion futurist and artist who believes women should “cultivate their eye and explore their own look” by celebrating themselves – ultimately finding confidence in embracing their own unique image. The Maria Pinto collection offers a clean minimalist, architectural aesthetic for the everyday polished look, alongside a seamless transition to the social professional, and for powerful “industrial meets elegant” C suite activities. Pinto’s clothes are an essential staple for any active woman who consciously values her humble yet powerful place in the community. Pinto’s new 2024 collection, “Deauville,” hearkens back to the modern silhouettes of late 19th century France and the celebration of personal style.

Audience Note: This program will be held in the Murphy Auditorium which is accessible. Please enter through the Museum’s 40 E Erie entrance

Image credit:

Motocycles Comiot, Théophile Alexandre Steinlen, 1899. Collection of the Richard H. Driehaus Museum. Photograph by John Faier.

Helene Supermoon Nicolette, Fluorite, Python Grey, Maria Pinto, Spring 2024 Collection. Photography by Yuya Ohashi.