DeKalb | The NIU art museum debuted its spring exhibit Thursday, which included the evolution of fashion through the years.

“Between the Wars: Contrasts, Parallels, Shifts and Patterns” and “Beyond Gatsby: Common Luxury in American Art Deco” opened Thursday in Altgeld Hall, NIU Art Museum. The art exhibits also helped welcome back former NIU First Lady Barbara Cole Peters, who was a guest co-curator of “Between the Wars: Contrasts, Parallels, Shifts and Patterns.” Visitors had the chance to listen to Peters’ commentary on “Art Deco and Women’s Fashion.”

Both exhibits focused on the transition of American fashion and how it has evolved through the years. “Between the Wars: Contrasts, Parallels, Shifts and Patterns” examined the styles of women’s clothing during war through fashion, furniture and pencil drawings, while “Beyond Gatsby: Common Luxury in American Art Deco” demonstrated every aspect of American style through jewelry, furniture and clothes. This exhibit was specifically created by Museum Studies graduate students.

One of the many things I enjoyed about this event was the clothing. It was the first thing I noticed when walking into the exhibit. I especially loved the red crepe evening suit with the gilt thread embroidered jacket. It was worn from 1935-39 and was comprised of a high-necked jacket, long tight sleeves, slightly puffed shoulders and a slim skirt. Graduate anthropology student Rae Slowik said she loved being a part of this event.

“I loved seeing people’s reactions while being at the museum,” Slowik said. “I heard an elderly couple say it was a blast from the past seeing fashion from their generation and I loved seeing people my age study the art in the museum.”

Another thing I enjoyed about the exhibit was the variety of art made available. There was more than just paintings on the wall and that made it more enjoyable to view.