Leslie Drollinger Stratmoen, a Riverton woman with a passion for vintage fashion, has amassed over 3,000 pieces of historical women’s clothing and accessories. Her collection, which includes items from the 1920s to the 1970s, is a treasure trove of fashion history that reflects the evolving styles and trends of the 20th century.
For Leslie, the love of vintage fashion started early, with a fascination for jewelry in junior high that later expanded to include clothing. Over the years, she scoured flea markets, antique stores, and garage sales, amassing a collection that not only showcases the beauty of the past but also tells a story of women’s empowerment and self-expression through fashion.
Leslie’s journey into the world of vintage clothing was intertwined with her career as a journalist and performer. Her involvement in theater productions and costume design further fueled her passion for collecting authentic pieces from different eras, paving the way for the creation of her historical fashion exhibit.
The idea for the exhibit, named “Flappers to Fringe,” was born out of Leslie’s desire to showcase the evolution of women’s fashion and the societal influences that shaped it. From the liberating styles of the 1920s to the rebellious spirit of the 1970s, each decade represented in the exhibit highlights a unique chapter in fashion history.
However, the road to bringing her vision to life was not without its challenges. The onset of the COVID-19 pandemic forced Leslie to rethink her plans, but with the help of a young friend and fellow enthusiast, Oakley Boycott, she found a way to launch an online exhibit and preserve the legacy of her collection.
With the support of the community and a grant from the Wyoming Humanities Council, Leslie’s collection found a home at the Occidental Hotel Museum in Buffalo. The exhibit, set up in six captivating dioramas, offers visitors a glimpse into the past, allowing them to step into the shoes of fashionable women from bygone eras.
As Leslie puts the finishing touches on the exhibit, she hopes to not only showcase the beauty of vintage fashion but also educate and inspire visitors about the cultural significance of clothing throughout history. Each piece in the collection carries a story, a memory, and a connection to the past that transcends mere fashion.
Through “Flappers to Fringe,” Leslie aims to spark conversations about women’s empowerment, social change, and the evolution of style over time. The exhibit serves as a tribute to the brave women who defied conventions and paved the way for future generations to express themselves through fashion.
As the doors of the Occidental Hotel Museum open to the public, Leslie invites everyone to immerse themselves in the magic of vintage fashion and experience a journey through time, where every garment, accessory, and detail tells a story of creativity, resilience, and the enduring allure of the past.
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