Imported garments and fabrics are an integral part of American fashion, and of the collection at Maine Historical Society. This slide show highlights the collection's 19th century traditional Chinese embroidered pleated skirt, and other items ranging in use from personal effects, bespoke gifts, and those likely intended for the Chinese tourism market.
Most notable is a tunic and pant made from Guangdong (Canton) mud silk, a regional textile specialty, until recently unrecognized or collected by museums. These items are part of a well documented early 20th century group of garments brought to Maine by Toy Len Goon.
It is anticipated that this currently and predominately Chinese selection will eventually expand to include garments from other cultures.