Inscription and illustration of the “Hornet” dress (facsimile), Fancy Dresses Described: or, What to Wear at Fancy Balls
Description:
This copy was originally owned by a formerly enslaved woman, Mrs. Annie Greene, who, according to the inscription, became a fashion writer in Buffalo, New York from 1890-1940. As most enslaved women were forbidden to read or own a book, Greene likely treasured this source, as it gave her not only access to vibrant illustrations and descriptions, but inspiration that drove her own economic mobility.