Drexel Exhibition Celebrates 25 Years of Nicole Miller’s Fashion Prowess in Philadelphia 

The Robert and Penny Fox Historic Costume Collection (FHCC) of Drexel University’s Westphal College of Media Arts & Design will present a retrospective exhibition highlighting work by renowned fashion designer Nicole Miller. The exhibition A Philadelphia Store-y: 25 Years of Nicole Miller Philadelphia (April 12-August 30, 2019) will pay tribute to the retailer’s contributions to fashion and philanthropy in the city.

An essential piece of Philadelphia’s retail fabric for 25 years, the Nicole Miller boutique in Manayunk has a reputation for being a fashion flagship among many of the city’s best-dressed. Philadelphians regularly rely on Miller’s consistent design aesthetic – seeking her classic, flattering shapes in fun prints, colors and textures.

The exhibition will feature archival materials saved over the last 25 years and will include approximately 35 Nicole Miller pieces featuring some of the designer’s earliest work, selections from her acclaimed bridal line and her renowned whimsical prints — many of which include Philadelphia-specific designs. The Robert and Penny Fox Historic Costume Collection Gallery is open to the public Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. in the URBN Center at 3501 Market St.

"I am very honored that Drexel is showing my retrospective and I am thrilled to celebrate Mary Dougherty’s 25 years in Manayunk,” said Nicole Miller. “Mary has always been a great partner and strong supporter of mine.  She is not only entrepreneurial, but she is someone who has always given back and helped the community. I wish her continued success.” 

Items on display will shed light on the evolution of Nicole Miller’s design aesthetic and her success in creating a brand empire. It will also highlight the entrepreneurial role of the boutique’s owner and operator Mary K. Dougherty, who was named “one of the most influential women in Philadelphia,” by Philadelphia magazine in 2016.

During Dougherty’s tenure the Nicole Miller Manayunk store received accolades such as “Best Place to shop for Wedding” by Manayunk Magazine, “Best place to shop for a Last-Minute Dress” by Philadelphia magazine, and “Best of Style” by Philadelphia Style Magazine. 

Dougherty, over the last two decades, has used her stores to help raise awareness and money for Philadelphia nonprofits including the Mural Arts Program, Go Red for Women, Alex’s Lemonade Stand, MANNA, Big Brothers/Big Sisters, Jeans for Justice and more.

“If you are fortunate enough to be successful, it is important to give something back to the community you serve,” said Dougherty.