BEST HOMETOWNS

Fashion Forward

The Kent State University Museum in the college town of Kent offers a window into the history and evolution of fashion, from the mid18th century to modern day.

Kent State University’s School of Fashion Design and Merchandising is the top in the Midwest, which makes a visit to the Kent State University Museum a walk through the styles we have worn over the decades and what those choices say about us.

Opened in 1985, the museum was made possible by a contribution from notable New York-based fashion entrepreneurs Shannon Rodgers and Jerry Silverman, for whom Kent’s fashion school is named. Spanning four expansive galleries, the museum showcases the university’s extensive collection.

Visitors are greeted by the “Fashion Timeline” exhibition, which features clothing from the 1750s to the present day. The series of rooms holds dresses, vests, suits, pants, skirts and more, highlighting our ever-changing fashion taste. Those shifts are especially apparent in 20th-century pieces, as distinct trends emerge by decades, ranging from women’s workwear of the 1940s to the evolution into bolder colors during the 1970s. The exhibition premiered in 2012, but garments from the collection are replaced frequently to keep things fresh.

See how fashion and design has changed over the years during a visit to the Kent State University Museum.

“It allows us to share with everybody more of the collection,” says Sarah J. Rogers, director of the Kent State University Museum since 2018.

Rogers emphasizes that the museum is not just for those who attend the university’s fashion school and others on campus. She encourages members of the public to include a visit to the Kent State University Museum as part of a trip to the college town.

“What I love in talking to people coming through the galleries is their sense of surprise,” she says. 515 Hilltop Dr., Kent 44240, 330/672-3450, kent.edu/museum

Historic Visit

Fort Meigs played a pivotal role in the War of 1812. Today, travelers to Perrysburg can walk the grounds of the historic site and learn about its place in U.S. history.

The earthen mounds U.S. soldiers built and used as shields while they burrowed in mud and repelled British cannon

Meig Sophia Lustig

Established in 2005, Meig has been providing Northwest Ohio with a curated assortment of on trend women’s wear with a “Bohemian Prepster” flair. Step into her beautiful emporium and find the perfect gift or item for your casual wardrobe. Follow MeigShop on Instagram to be the first to shop new merchandise!

119 Louisiana Ave., Perrysburg | 419-874-6559 meigshop.com

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At Sophia Lustig, we curate polished wardrobes composed of modern pieces and core luxury essentials to develop and refine your own personal style. With our careful attention to detail, unmatched customer service, and wealth of experience, you will feel confident, stylish and lovely, whether at work or at play. Since 1936. Honoring the past. Influenced by the present. Inspiring the future.

126 Louisiana Ave., Perrysburg l 419-243-5131

Sophialustig.com

Vintage Groves 577 Foundation

Located in the heart of uptown Perrysburg Ohio, Vintage Groves is a “must see” eclectic boutique blending vintage, new, and improved home furnishings and accessories. Explore the unique styles from simple to statement making for you, your home or gift giving. Make plans to visit us soon!

116 Louisiana Ave., Perrysburg l 419-931-1010 vintagegroves116.com

Open to all, 577 builds a creative, caring community through curiosity and lifelong learning. Come enjoy a peaceful refuge, a place to learn, and so much more. Grounds are open daily, 9 am to 5 pm; admission is always free. Welcome Center & Curiosity Shop are open Wednesday through Saturday, 10 am to 5 pm.

577 East Front St., Perrysburg l 419-874-4174

577foundation.org