Dressing Louisiana: Histoires de la mode de la Louisiana

Louisiana Couture: The Legacy of San Carlin
August 1, 2026-January 4, 2027

Staged in partnership with the Louisiana Art & Science Museum, this exhibition presents the history of Baton Rouge-based luxury evening and cocktail wear brand San Carlin, founded by Carla Jumonville and Linda Ward-Dalton, with twenty-nine garments from the LSU Textile & Costume Museum archive spanning the company's history from the mid-1980s to the early 2000s. In addition to these dazzling gowns, designed by LSU fashion program alum Gonzalo Calderón-Ortiz, an extensive collection of related fashion photography by noted Baton Rouge photographer Fred Frey enfolds the garments in rich visuals. Designed and created in Baton Rouge yet sold internationally through high-end boutiques and department stores such as Neiman Marcus and Saks Fifth Avenue, San Carlin became synonymous with glamour, excellent craftsmanship, and luxury.

This exhibition is made possible with financial support from:
Big Ideas in the Arts & Humanities, Provost's Fund Grant, LSU

and by our sponsors
Carla Jumonville
Linda Ward-Dalton
Pat Alford

Upcoming events related to the San Carlin exhibit:

October 17, 2026: 10:00 am - 1:00 pm	San Carlin Studio Sketch Join us for a lesson in fashion illustration and an opportunity to sketch San Carlin creations.
November 12, 2026 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm	Art After Hours Curator, Dr. Michael Mamp, will present a lecture explaining the history of San Carlin and the exhibit curatorial process. Visitors can also view the exhibit. TCM members receive free admission. All other guests charged regular museum admission.