Walnut Manor displays collection of vintage dresses at open

house and tea

Every era has its own ‘look’ -- forever branded by the clothes that

people wore. In this way, fashion is an integral part of history. In

1970, the California Lutheran Homes Auxiliary opened a thrift shop in

Alhambra, California. As items were received from members and friends

of congregations, it was observed that some of the donated clothing

was historically valuable and pieces were set aside. Eventually, a

number of dresses from the early 1900s and a few large-brimmed hats

appeared along with many valuable accessories. Thus, the Heritage

Collection of Costumes began.

Eleven of the oldest garments have been restored and will be on

display at Walnut Manor at an Open House and Tea hosted by the CHI

Walnut Manor Chapter Board on March 12 from 1 - 4 p.m. These garments

represent a period in history from 1890 to the hand-beaded flapper

dresses of the 1920s. The heavily beaded, black silk crepe evening

dress has approximately 75,00 silver-cut glass beads and

multi-colored glass seed beads that are sewn on, one at a time, using

a chain stitch called tambouring in an art deco pattern.

We invite you to view this wonderful collection. Please R.S.V.P.

at (714) 239-6208. The Open House and Tea on March 12 will be held in

our Walnut Center Building on the campus of Walnut Manor, 891 S.

Walnut St. in Anaheim.