Elegance rarely comes without effort. Throughout the centuries, a great deal of time, energy and resources has been devoted to this quest. Mastered by those with financial means, fashion was once the privilege of the few. For some it was also an obligation: noblemen were required to appear at court and in battle in elaborate finery. To fight was their birthright; to shine, their prerogative.

I invite you to select different topics and time periods to learn more about man's elegance and sense of style from the late seventeenth century to the early twentieth century. I hope you enjoy the journey.

Anne Bissonnette
Curator