The Fiesta Queens of San Antonio
by HI Fashion History Lifestyle Texas Week
The 2015 Court of Captivating Islands // San Antonio Express-News Archive
San Antonio's Fiesta lies somewhere between Mardi Gras, a debutante ball, and the Rose Bowl parade. Since 1891, the city has come together to celebrate every spring. Presiding over these festivities is the Court of the Alamo - headed by that season's crowned Queen. Known for their larger-than-life embellished gowns and social connections, these queens are truly Texas. (And like all good things - there's a drag version!)
1946 - Dorothea Chittim - Queen of the Court of Honor
Hollywood glamour takes the Fiesta. The sweetheart bodice, soft waves, and bright smile would make Dorothea right at home at the Paramount backlot in the 1940s.
Joella Bitter Lupe - Queen of the Court of the Spanish Empire - 1991
Vibrant red and gold with embroidered details of lions and castles made this one of the most royal-inspired looks.
Martha Lewis - Queen of the Court of the Mediterranean - 1928
Martha, Martha, Martha. We're obsessed with you. The feathers, the dropped waistline, that collar?!?! We just know her reign was fabulous...
Annabelle Ellen Sweeney - Queen of the Court of Beauty - 1963
While the quality of this photo leaves a *little* something to be desired, we couldn't skip this look. The perfectly 60s bouffant hair paired with the open collar that makes her look like she's wearing fairy wings.
Catherine McCord Coiner - Queen of the Court of Imperial Patronage - 1992
The gold print and puffed sleeves on Catherine that she paired with her bleached cropped hair are giving "90s modern woman" in old world finery. 😽👌
Kitty West Nelson - Queen of the Court of Make-Believe - 1952
Not only does Kitty preside over one of our favorite themes Fiesta has done (The Court of Make Believe? Love.) But the scalloped detailing throughout her train makes this one of our favorite looks. What I wouldn't give to see a color picture of this beauty!
Linda Grace McSween - Queen of the Court of Artistic Splendor - 1990
This diva is giving me major Brooke Shields vibes. The bold brows, soft hair, and vibrant lip. And don't get me started on the floral print train and gold lace sleeves.
Sarah Spohn Johnson - Queen of the Court of Never Neverland - 1983
Sarah is practically subdued in this tone-on-tone treat with swirls and sparkles.
Ann Ingrum Fawcett - Queen of the Court of Classical Design - 1988
Something about the more angular florals and white and gold design give this regal look a fresh feel.
Mary Elizabeth Pryor - Queen of the Court of Victorian Splendor - 1980
A moment for the jewels! Not a bit of our Fiesta Queens aren't covered in glitz - and we love that.
Photos // San Antonio Express-News Archives
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