Ginger Rogers' iconic fashion takes center stage at State Historical Society event

The late, great Ginger Rogers could sing, dance and act — and always looked elegant doing so. The iconic performer seemed to move as if on air, arrayed in glorious fashion.

Just a small portion of what Rogers wore will be displayed Tuesday at the State Historical Society of Missouri as part of its History on Elm lunch-hour series.

Billed Ginger Rogers: Dressed to Impress, the event will serve as a sneak preview for a longer exhibit to be held March 2-Aug. 31 at the State Historical Society.

On Tuesday, Nicole Johnston, curator of the Missouri Historic Costume and Textile Collection, and University of Missouri graduate student Mackenzie Miller will show off a few items from the Rogers wardrobe and share "how the garments influence modern designers," according to a news release.

Born in Independence in 1911, Rogers spent her early childhood years in the Kansas City area, a detail that's important to Johnston and Miller.

"They’ll also share insight about the Missouri native who often defied society norms throughout her lengthy career in entertainment," the news release notes. "Though often remembered for full-length gowns, Rogers also frequently danced onscreen in trousers allowing her the freedom to perform complex dance moves and reminded viewers that women could be men’s equal on the dance floor and perhaps elsewhere."

Perhaps most closely associated with her frequent on-screen dance partner Fred Astaire, Rogers earned a best actress Academy Award for 1940's "Kitty Foyle"; the film bestowed a lasting name on the style of dress she wore in its frames.

Rogers also ranks among the American Film Institute's "100 Years ... 100 Stars" list.

Tuesday's event is free and takes place at noon. Learn more at https://shsmo.org/.

Aarik Danielsen is the features and culture editor for the Tribune. Contact him at adanielsen@columbiatribune.com or by calling 573-815-1731. He's on Twitter/X @aarikdanielsen.