Especially for You: The Otey Sisters of Raleigh
Discover how dreams are made into dresses...
Welcome to Especially for You: The Otey Sisters of Raleigh, the North Carolina Museum of History’s online exhibit showcasing 20th century formalwear made by Raleigh’s renowned Otey sisters.
From January 16–September 5, 2016, the museum presented the popular exhibit Made Especially for You by Willie Kay, which welcomed more than 290,000 visitors, gained international attention, and prompted an outpouring of interest and enthusiasm. This site is an expansion of that exhibit intended to serve as a dynamic, enduring community resource.
Enter the site to explore the physical exhibit, search the decade catalog of Otey creations, and hear directly from those who knew the sisters. Elegance awaits!
Take a tour of the North Carolina Museum of History’s three main sections of the "Made Especially for You by Willie Kay" exhibit.
Thank You!
The North Carolina Museum of History would like to extend a special thank-you to all of the individuals who shared artifacts, memories, historical documentation, and expertise during the creation of "Made Especially for You by Willie Kay"—especially members of the extended Otey family.
The North Carolina Museum of History also gratefully acknowledges the following businesses, organizations, and individuals for their support of this exhibition:
- North Carolina Museum of History Foundation
- North Carolina Museum of History Associates
- Elizabeth Constant Lewis, in honor of her grandmother Elizabeth Otey Constant
- Boxcar Bar + Arcade
- Raleigh Chapter of the Links, Incorporated
- Janine Rouson and Butch James
- GE Foundation
- Kannon’s Clothing
- High Cotton