The Epitome Of Elegance At Wadsworth Atheneum

HARTFORD — “Epitome of Elegance: The Kay Hoffman Fashion Collection,” at the Wadsworth Atheneum Museum of Art from through August 15, affords a glimpse into the wardrobe of a Hartford fashion icon.

“Kay’s clothes reflected her engaging lifestyle,” said Carol Dean Krute, the museum’s curator of costume and textiles. “They are classic and classy, purchased from designers with sterling status like Dior, Norell, Blass, Valentino, Pucci, Trigere, Arnold Scaazi, James Galanos, Geoffrey Beene, and Giorgio Armani.”

Twenty sophisticated garments will be displayed, including evening gowns, cocktail dresses, smart suits, and day dresses.

For 30 years, Katherine S. Hoffman was a devoted friend and donor to Wadsworth Atheneum, especially to its costume and textile department, where she worked hand in hand with three consecutive curators. As a docent, she compiled vast research notes gleaned from scholarly sources and her frequent journeys around the world. Ms Hoffman was a founding member of the museum’s Costume & Textile Society, which will mark its 20th anniversary this year.

The Wadsworth Atheneum Museum of Art, at 600 Main Street, is open Tuesday through Friday from 11 am to 5 pm, Saturday and Sunday from 10 am to 5 pm, and the first Thursday of most months until 8. Call 860-278-2670 for details.