Titanic period fashion show will display trends of 1900s

Student producers and designers from West Virginia University’s Division of Design and Merchandising Department will be putting on a unique tea and fashion show with a Titanic era theme on Sunday.

The show, which is part of a class put together by Professor Lynn Barnes, will commemorate the anniversary of the sinking of the Titanic 100 years ago, on April 15, 1912.

Students and producers have been working since the fall semester to create their garments for the period fashion show. Some outfits that can be expected are tea gowns, evening gowns and specialty items such as gym clothes and hunting attire.

Some designers looked to passengers aboard the ship for inspiration. Designer Mary Pietranton was heavily influenced by Eloise, wife of Lucian Smith, who was a resident of Morgantown.

"These outfits are directly inspired by the fashions and culture of the Titanic era. This is accompanied by music from the era and commentary about the history from the time," said Nicole Schmidt, who played a key role in putting the show together.

In addition to Titanic era fashion, the show will feature era-appropriate music, presentations of art, politics and social culture on board trans-Atlantic ocean liners.

On board the real Titanic, first-class passengers enjoyed their tea in the "Cafe Parisian." At the show, guests will have the opportunity to experience the Titanic themselves in the students’ own recreation of the "Cafe Parisian."

Showtimes are at 3 p.m. and 7 p.m. Sunday. The earlier of the two will be complete with an afternoon-tea menu including finger sandwiches, scones, desserts and of course, tea.

At the 7 p.m. showing, the menu will consist of tea and desserts. All menu items will be representative of the food served on the Titanic.

The event will take place at the Preston Community Arts Center, located at 123 S. Price Street, Kingwood, W.Va. Prices are $30 with a discounted price of $25 for senior citizens. Seating is limited and reservations are required. For tickets, please call Professor Lynn Barnes at (304) 293-3533.