The Fashion Archives & Museum of Shippensburg University, in collaboration with the Central Penn Doll Collectors Club, opened its latest exhibit, All Dolled Up!
The exhibit showcases a wide variety of dolls from the 19th and 20th centuries, exploring the cultural significance of dolls and their influence on childhood during these periods. Visitors can view displays of precious porcelain dolls, Barbie dolls and their precursors, and other historical dolls alongside period clothing that reflects how toys and fashion have evolved together throughout time.
The display is divided into three themes: “Little Mothers Bringing Up Baby,” “My Best Friend,” and “Exploring Adult Roles and Fashions.”
Dr. Karin Bohleke, director of the Fashion Archives & Museum, expressed her excitement for the exhibit:
“Dolls reflect culture, shape a child’s imagination and identity and offer a way of exploring both imagination and future life as an adult through play and doll fashions. Adult and children’s clothing from the same periods illustrate how toys and clothes resemble each other. Visitors will likely recognize dolls from their own childhood.” Fans of the Barbie movie will enjoy the examples of early original Barbies, as well as her precursors.
The Fashion Archives & Museum is open Monday to Thursday from 12 to 4 p.m. In response to popular demand, beginning April 12, the museum will also be open on Saturdays from 12 to 4 p.m. On the same date, updated admission fees will take effect: $5 for adults and $4 for seniors. Please note: the museum will be closed on Saturday, July 5, in honor of the national holiday.
The All Dolled Up! exhibit will be on display through November 20, 2025.
For more information, please contact fasharch@ship.edu or call (717) 477-1239.
