Object Spotlight: Costume worn by Lena Horne

Lena Horne started out as a Cotton Club dancer in New York when she was still a teenager. Lured by a seven-year Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer contract, she moved to Hollywood and starred in the all-Black-cast musicals Cabin in the Sky (1943) and Stormy Weather. In the latter film, she wore the dress shown here, which was restored for this exhibition. Horne refused to play stereotypes, and was often overlooked for more substantial roles or relegated to singing parts. She later used her public persona to become an outspoken civil rights activist.

Costume worn by Lena Horne Stormy Weather (1943) Costume design: Helen Rose Silk, lame, sequins, glass beads, cotton thread; non-original shoes, brooch, and scarf  Collection of Greg Schreiner