NRF promotes and invests in the architectural heritage of the Newport community, the traditional building trades, and Doris Duke’s fine and decorative arts collections, for the enjoyment, education and inspiration of all.
As a leader in the preservation of early American architecture, NRF supports research and education in areas directly related to its collections and issues of critical concern to the field of historic preservation.
Visit Doris Duke’s art-filled mansion and enjoy panoramic ocean views from the extensive grounds. Open late March to November.
The Vernon House is a site for expansive story-telling, contemporary dialogue, and preservation trades skill-building.
Newport Restoration Foundation holds one of the largest collections of period architecture owned by a single organization anywhere in the United States.
Celebrate excellence in historic preservation efforts within the City of Newport, Rhode Island.
Live amidst history by renting one of our many historic properties.
Jet Set to Jeans highlighted the life of Doris Duke through her wardrobe, revealing the many facets of her personality and a microcosm of 20th-century fashion history. The exhibition spanned the years from the late 1920s to the late 1980s, capturing Doris Duke's life decade by decade through her clothing.
Pantsuit
Day Dress
Cocktail Dress
Consistently throughout her life, Doris Duke sought outfits that were just a little bit innovative and shocking, but illustrate a simple, classic tailoring and structure. This pantsuit has typical Halston styling, making it comfortable and easy to wear, and yet the gold lamé fabric gives the outfit a little dazzle.
A collector of Thai art, Doris Duke also bought a variety of dresses in bright, vibrant Thai silks. This caftan style dress reflects design of the late sixties and seventies.
After years of wartime fabric restrictions and masculine styling, Dior presented his "New Look" in 1947. As seen in this dress, the look emphasized the feminine with rounded shoulders, tiny waists and full skirts. Doris Duke owned several dresses and hats that reflected this new styling.
