Jean L. Parsons

2021-2024

Jean L. Parsons, PhD is a professor at University of Missouri and curator of the Missouri Historic Costume and Textile Collection. A recognized scholar in both design and history, her research includes digital textile and apparel design, and history of the apparel industry. The latter focuses on examination of issues related to intellectual property rights, including patents and design piracy from a historical perspective. Her design work, as well as that of her students, has won many national and international awards. In addition to her many exhibited designs and publications, Dr. Parsons co-authored Knock-it-off! A History of Design Piracy in the U.S. Women’s Ready-To-Wear Apparel Industry (2016, with Sara Marcketti), and 20th Century Dress in the U.S. (2007, with Jane Farrell-Beck).