How Apron Dresses Stitched Together German History and Modern Fashion

A new exhibition is putting the spotlight on apron dresses, a garment with deep roots in German history. From wartime workwear to a symbol of everyday life in East and West Germany, these dresses now take centre stage in a show curated by Stefanie Reis. The display opens alongside a podcast exploring their cultural significance. Apron dresses first appeared during World War I as practical workwear for women. Known as Hooverettes, they became essential for those filling industrial roles while men fought overseas. Their popularity grew again after World War II, particularly in West Germany during the Wirtschaftswunder—the economic boom of the 1950s and 60s.

In East Germany, the dresses were made from materials like Dederon, a synthetic fabric unique to the region. The exhibition features pieces from Lübeck and the surrounding area, each carrying personal stories of labour, resilience, and quiet rebellion against traditional gender roles. Stefanie Reis, the exhibition’s curator, wears apron dresses regularly and highlights their sustainability in an era of fast fashion. She also celebrates how people today are reinterpreting the style, giving it fresh meaning in 2026. The exhibition coincides with the launch of a podcast, *Im Kittel mit…* (*In an Apron With…*), which debuted on January 15, 2023. Even high fashion has taken notice. Luxury brand Miu Miu included apron-inspired designs in its latest spring collection, proving the garment’s enduring appeal.

The exhibition presents apron dresses as more than just clothing—they serve as tangible records of women’s lives. Through personal stories and historical context, the dresses connect past struggles with modern discussions on sustainability and self-expression. The show invites visitors to see them not just as relics, but as living pieces of cultural history.