Preston worked in the afternoon yesterday, so I decided to head to the local art museum. I love to visit art museums, particularly when I'm in a new town. I'm always surprised when they charge entry, but I know we are spoiled in St. Louis with all the free museums. This museum was free of charge and while the permanent collection was fairly boring, I did come across one painting I particularly liked. Doesn't she look like she enjoys a good time?

Portrait de Femme, Adélaïde Labille-Guiard

After a quick stroll through the permanent collection, I learned they had a temporary collection on view, Tenues de Soirée, 1826-1914, which I immediately checked out.

Once, after a meeting in New York, I had just enough time before my flight to meet up with a dear friend, Jeana. Rather than grab a quick coffee and catch up, she whisked me over to see the Daphne Guinness collection At the Fahion Institute of Technology. I wandered, open-mouthed among the costumes, gowns and decadent garments she's worn over the years. The Alexandar McQueen pieces were particularly beautiful, of course.

Stepping into the room that featured the Tenues de Soirée, was similar to how I felt looking at Guinness' collection. Gowns were displayed all over the room, from bridal gowns, to mourning shrouds and several party dresses. The collection was stunning. I marveled at the make up mirrors, tiny leather gloves and evening bags. The detail that went into making these gowns was remarkable. Beautiful collection, I'm so lucky to have stumbled upon it.