He revolutionized fashion in Paris, France, formed what’s widely considered the world’s first true couture house and is credited with such innovations as clothing labels, using live models for new collections and garments such as the hoop skirt and the bustle.

Now, this week, the Niagara-on-the-Lake Museum will host a lecture on the life and times of Charles Frederick Worth, the 19th-century designer often called the father of French haute couture.

Renowned fashion historian Rita Brown will present “The Value of Worth” on Aug. 21 at 7:30 p.m., exploring the life and legacy of the Englishman who changed the world of fashion.

Worth founded the House of Worth in the 1850s, widely considered the first true couture house.

Timed to mark the 200th anniversary of Worth’s birth, Brown’s lecture will also feature a rare look at two garments from the museum’s collection, including an early Worth creation possibly once owned by a wealthy Buffalo socialite.

“Over the years, descendants of Worth’s international clients have realized the value of his exquisite dresses,” Brown said.

“Thankfully, many of his creations have been preserved in museum collections around the world, so we can continue to study and be delighted by the design innovations and extraordinary textiles of the past.”

Brown will also touch on a current Paris exhibition showcasing more than 400 items linked to Worth’s international legacy, including garments, accessories, paintings, perfumery and sketches.

A familiar face to Niagara-on-the-Lake audiences, Brown worked for decades at the Shaw Festival Theatre, serving as head cutter of women’s costume from 1964 to 2007 and Head of Wardrobe for 10 of those years.

Her career has included designing costumes for the Canadian Opera Company, Tarragon Theatre, Canadian Stage, New York City Opera, London’s National Theatre and the Gorky Theatre in St. Petersburg.

She has also contributed to exhibitions at the Royal Ontario Museum, the Met, Victoria and Albert Museum, and the Musée des Arts Décoratifs at the Louvre.

Brown is currently completing a book titled “The Lady’s Riding Habit: The Evolution of Women’s Equestrian Dress,” set to be released later this year.

The lecture will be held at the museum, 43 Castlereagh St., starting at 7:30 p.m. Admission is $15, or free for museum members.