Lois Jett Historic Costume Collection

The Lois Jett Historic Costume Collection (LJHCC) was started in 1962 by Lois Jett, a Fashion Design and Merchandising faculty member within the Department of Family and Consumer Sciences.

Today, this teaching collection houses more than 2,000 items of dress, textiles, and associated artifacts from all around the world. Items in the LJHCC date from 700 CE to today and were worn by men, women, and children.

Mission

The mission of the LJHCC is to stimulate interest and further study in all aspects of fashion history.

Education

The Lois Jett Historic Costume Collection enhances teaching and learning by connecting students with items of dress that represent concepts discussed in courses. Hands on experiences with artifacts lead to deeper learning and understanding, regardless of course content or discipline.

Students completing Professional Practice internships in the LJHCC learn how to manage collections, connect with the community on social media, and plan and install exhibitions each fall and spring semesters in the LJHCC Gallery. The LJHCC also offers research opportunities for independent student and faculty scholarship. Recent student-curated exhibitions include Fashion in Film, Boot Camp, and The Color Experience.

Social Media

Follow the LJHCC on Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest, and YouTube for highlights of collection holdings.

Preservation

All artifacts donated to the Lois Jett Historic Costume Collection are used only for educational and research purposes. Museum standards are followed for handling, cataloging, and storage. All facilities are climate-controlled for consistent temperature and humidity.

Contact

For more information contact LJHCC Director:

Jennifer Banning, Ph.D.
(309) 438-5960
jbannin@ilstu.edu