Ringling Archives Reveals Historic Circus Costume Designs by Celebrated Designers

The Ringling Archives safeguards the legacy of circus, Wild West Shows, and associated arts through its collection of original costume design sketches. Notable designers such as Don Foote, Miles White, and Max Weldy crafted these pieces for prominent productions. Foote contributed designs for Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus as well as Walt Disney's World on Ice. White, a Tony Award recipient, was responsible for the costumes in Cecil B. De Mille's The Greatest Show on Earth. Weldy is recognized for his work at the Cabaret at Folies Bergere and various circus, Broadway, film, and stage productions. Jenny Leigh Du Puis, curator of Dressing the Circus at Cornell University, notes that circus costumes must merge safety with aesthetics while enabling performers' movements. These outfits necessitate specialized sewing and patternmaking skills to endure frequent use. Design sketches address both practical requirements and artistic intent, taking into account aesthetics, performer safety, garment functionality, durability, body shapes, construction methods, and fabric choices. Advances in technology have transformed materials, ranging from sequined luxury to contemporary spandex and hot-fix rhinestones. The design process encompasses the functionality, style, and effort involved in creating costumes for traveling performances.