History Pub - 800 Years of Fashion: 12th to 20th Century Ballgowns and Formal Wear

McMenamins and Costumers of Color present

History Pub

800 Years of Fashion:
12th to 20th Century Ballgowns and Formal Wear
Presented by Gigi Coulson

Spanish Ballroom
McMenamins Elks Temple
Tuesday, July 22, 2025
7pm/doors 6pm
All ages

Clothing Historian Gigi Coulson will present an overview of ballroom fashion from the 12th through the 20th centuries in anticipation of the upcoming Tacoma History Ball at the Spanish Ballroom on August 15 and the Georgian Global Salon hosted by nonprofit Costumers of Color in Seattle on October 4. Gigi’s talk will offer the historical context of changing fashions, plus practical guidance on sourcing historical patterns, commissioning custom garments, and clever ways to transform off-the-rack modern clothing into stunning ensembles to suit formal historical events. Don’t miss this opportunity to elevate your historical style and get ballroom ready!

Gigi Coulson is a sociologist, public historian, historical costumer, and independent researcher with a focus on European culture and clothing. She is the founder and executive director of Costumers of Color, Inc., a 501(c)(3) nonprofit creating safe and welcoming multicultural spaces in historical costuming. Gigi travels extensively for Costumers of Color and organizes educational events and historical costuming trips to Europe. Scholarships are available to support inclusion and equity for the BIPOC community.

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