Textile and Fashion Museum
About This Museum
This place is a total gem for anyone who's ever been curious about what we wear and why. It's not just a museum; it's a deep dive into the very fabric of Cholet's history, which was built on the textile industry. You'll find everything from delicate 18th-century linen handkerchiefs to wild 1980s designer dresses. The way they present the clothes makes you feel like you're flipping through a living, breathing storybook of style. It’s surprisingly engaging and far from your typical dusty archive.
Collection Highlights
The real standouts are the iconic Cholet red handkerchiefs, with their fascinating political history, and an incredible assortment of historic looms that sometimes clatter to life during demonstrations. Their fashion collection brilliantly tracks how silhouettes changed dramatically from structured corsets to the free-flowing flapper dresses of the 1920s.
Visitor Information
It's tucked away on Rue du Dr Roux in Cholet and is totally worth seeking out. Check their website for current hours before you go, as they can vary. If you can, time your visit for one of the live weaving demos—it really brings the whole story to life.
Architecture & Building
Housed in a beautifully converted old laundry building, it blends classic industrial brickwork with clean, modern interiors that let the fashions truly pop.
Contact & Location
Address: 49300, Cholet, Maine-et-Loire, Pays de la Loire, France métropolitaine, France
Phone: +33 2 72 77 22 50
Website: Visit Website