Why Did We Wear That? The Search for Comfort While in Fashionable Attire

On Friday, October 25, at 10 a.m., Academia Hernando presents an engaging and valuable lecture titled “Why Did We Wear That? The Search for Comfort While in Fashionable Attire,” led by Professor Emeritus Gretchen Vaughn. This lecture is part of Academia Hernando’s Fall Series, held at St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church in Spring Hill, Florida.

In an interview, Vaughn shared how her unique perspective on fashion, rooted in her love of social history, began early. “I grew up on a farm in Ohio and learned to sew in 4-H, which covered the technical aspects, having garments to go to the state fair, etc. Even earlier, I must have been fascinated by costumes. We had a set of World Book encyclopedias, and the entry for historical costumes of the world was well creased by my frequent study!” Vaughn’s love of social history is central to her approach to fashion, “To me, it’s social history that can be interesting, educational and fun! Discussing history, however, it’s never just one pathway but the interwoven influences converging at a point in time.”

Vaughn’s presentation will not be a one-way lecture but an interactive exploration of the evolving trends in women’s fashion. She will focus on the Victorian era, the influence of revolutionary artists and emerging feminist movements. Attendees will learn about the Pre-Raphaelite Brotherhood’s impact on aesthetic fashion and the controversial Dress Reform Movement, which challenged restrictive garments like corsets. Vaughn will also discuss how the “New Woman” of the 20th century embraced athleticism, with activities like cycling symbolizing newfound freedom and independence. As Vaughn puts it, “The presentation title, ‘Why Did We Wear THAT?,’ allows us to witness the changes in women’s clothing roughly during the reign of Queen Victoria. What may remain unanswered is, ‘WHY Did We Wear That?’”

Academia Hernando is a nonprofit organization committed to lifelong learning for adults in Hernando County. As we are halfway through the fall series, the community has seen a diverse lineup of speakers covering topics ranging from history to music and culture. Now, Vaughn, a seasoned educator and costume designer, brings her extensive background in comparative arts, including architecture, art, music and history, to her lectures.

Individual lectures are available for $15 cash or check. Walk-ins are welcome, but space may be limited. For more details, contact Academia Hernando at 352-345-8345 or 352-515-0300.