Throughout history fashion has been shaped by changes in society. In the 20th century, women’s roles in the workforce experienced a dramatic shift. At the beginning of the century, the American workforce was predominantly male, but by its end, women made up half of the workforce. As a result, women’s fashion adapted to meet the needs of their expanding roles.

At the same time, the aviation industry was taking shape. In the early 1900s, aviation was primarily used for mail delivery, but by the century’s close, it had transformed into the bustling commercial industry we recognize today.

This exhibition will show you how these changes are reflected in the clothes women wore to work in aviation. We ask you to consider how fashion has worked hand in hand with women’s liberation but also, to consider how it has been used to limit or control women in the workplace.