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   Woodmere is honored to announce a gift of more than 200 original garments and accessories by American designer Mary McFadden (1938-2024). Known for her patented “Marii” pleating, a heat-transfer process that set permanent pleats into synthetic fabric she envisinoed as “liquid gold,” McFadden treated clothing as art, drawing on ancient civilizations, textiles, archaeology, and her travels around the world. The collection includes standout pieces from her signature beaded evening gowns, silk separates, embellished tunics, quilted jackets and coats, and dramatic couture. The gift was made possible by John McFadden, the designer’s brother, with a significant portion of garments coming from Joan Olden, longtime president of Mary McFadden, Inc. The collection also has deep Philadelphia roots, tied to the McFadden family’s legacy of collecting and their connection to the study of the ancient world. As John McFadden put it, the Lending Library at Woodmere lets Mary’s work “continue to be worn, explored, and appreciated rather than simply preserved. ”ENTER THE MARY MCFADDEN EXPERIENCE  EXPLORE ONLINE Browse every piece on Woodmere’s new online hub, The Mary McFadden Experience. New garments are being revealed continuosly. Researchers and vintage fashion lovers can search by garment type, fabric, style, and more.  SEE ITIN PERSON Member Tours begin this month in a re-envisioned space in the Jewelry Vault of Maguire Hall, with gold stenciling, ornate mirrors, and Asian-style rugs. Nearby, the Mary McFadden Gallery shows her personal jewelry collection.  WEAR HISTORY Coming in the weeks ahead, The Lending Library will allow Members to borrow selected vintage couture pieces, turning the collection into a living archive. Stay tuned for more details about this special opportunity for members—now is the best time to renew your membership or join for the first time! Explore onlineMember ToursBecome a Member |
| EXHIBITIONS HAPPENING LEARN & CREATE JOIN & SUPPORT ABOUT WOODMERE PLAN YOUR VISIT Telling the Story of the Art & Artists of Philadelphia  Frances M. Maguire Hall9001 Germantown AvenuePhiladelphia, PA, 19118 Charles Knox Smith Hall9201 Germantown AvenuePhiladelphia, PA, 19118 Wednesday – Sunday: 10am – 5pmFree admission every SundayFree admission for kids every day     Woodmere | 9201 Germantown Avenue | Philadelphia, PA 19118 |
