Couture Pattern Museum

1525 State Street Ste 301, Penthouse Suite
Santa Barbara, CA

Tucked away in Santa Barbara’s historic Arts District, the Couture Pattern Museum is a rare find for travelers who seek out quiet, meaningful cultural experiences. This is not a typical walk-in museum. Due to the fragility of the garments and the archival nature of the collection, visits are available by appointment only and offered as private, guided tours by the curator.

The museum holds one of the only archives in the world dedicated to commercial haute couture dress patterns, some dating back over a century. On display, visitors will see authentic garments by designers like Balenciaga, Christian Dior, and James Galanos, along with reconstructed costumes and the original patterns of Givenchy, Norman Hartnell, Madame Grès, Jean Dessès, and Marc Bohan.

The museum was recently featured in the Haute Issue of WWD Weekend Magazine for its role in preserving fashion history on the California coast.

Each $125 all-inclusive ticket includes:

  • An exclusive private tour guided by the curator
  • Naming rights to a digitized pattern in the archive
  • Tea and French treats on the patio over overlooking the Arts District and Santa Barbara coastline
  • Small parting gift

This quiet fashion archive offers a different kind of museum visit; a slower, more personal and interactive tour rooted in haute couture fashion design history and fashion-making. Ideal for fashion lovers, design students, collectors, and those who enjoy cultural depth, slow travel, and learning experiences. Perfect for birthday celebrations or to celebrate an afternoon of beauty with family or friends.

Children under 18 from Santa Barbara County schools may attend free with an adult.

Appointments are limited. To reserve or inquire about private group visits, call (805) 303-4775.

Couture Pattern Museum

1525 State Street Ste 301, Penthouse Suite
Santa Barbara, CA 93101

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