The organization Clothes That Work was created June 12, 1998, with the mission of preparing clients for a self-sufficient life through interview training, educational help, and assistance with obtaining and maintaining a proper professional wardrobe.
A flyer showing clients dressed in clothes for interview (MS-628, Box 6, File 5)
The organization was created by a group of eight women who wanted to prepare women for the workplace and developed into an organization that prepares all impoverished people who want help, or who need help with more than just work attire. The organization provides clothes and footwear to those who do not have access to it otherwise, they also provide training for their clients to learn how to act and present themselves professionally, and how to prepare best for an interview. They also provide prom dresses to girls who otherwise would not be able to go because they cannot afford lavish dresses through their event called the Fairy Godmother Project. To support women and raise funds for the organization, they also do fundraising events such as Hunks in Heels, where men wear high-heels and compete for “best legs” and other prizes.
The Clothes That Work Collection (2.31 linear feet and 1177.40 MB) contains administrative files (annual meeting minutes, the constitution and bylaws, and awards and achievements the organization earned); event files (including “Hunks in Heels” and “The Fairy Godmother Project”); marketing materials (including newspaper clippings and brochures, job listings, and training manuals); and audiovisual materials (photographs and video)
Men showing off their legs for the Hunks in Heels best leg contest (MS-628, Box 2, File 7)
This collection was processed in Spring 2019 by Abigail Search. For more information about this collection, including a detailed box and file listing, please review the MS-628: Clothes That Work Collection finding aid.