The $1.56 Million Secret: 7 Shocking Facts About The Sound Of Music's Iconic Curtain Clothes

The iconic "curtain clothes" from The Sound of Music remain one of the most recognizable and heartwarming costume concepts in cinematic history, but the story behind Maria’s resourceful creation is far richer and more complex than a simple sewing project. It is a tale of genius costume design, surprising historical context, and a cultural phenomenon whose value continues to soar, as demonstrated by recent auctions and current 2025 exhibitions.

As of December 2025, the legacy of these simple, yet revolutionary, garments is being celebrated globally, proving their enduring appeal. From their surprising fabric composition to the staggering financial value they hold today, these seven outfits—made for the seven von Trapp children—are a masterclass in storytelling through wardrobe, cementing their place as a true Hollywood legend.

The Hidden Life of the Von Trapp Drapery Outfits

The concept of Maria cutting up the Baroness Elsa Schraeder's expensive drapes to create play clothes for the von Trapp children—Liesl, Friedrich, Louisa, Kurt, Brigitta, Marta, and Gretl—is the perfect symbol of her practicality and rejection of Captain von Trapp’s rigid lifestyle. However, the real-world creation of these costumes by legendary designer Dorothy Jeakins is a fascinating study in cinematic art.

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1. The "Curtains" Were Not What You Think: The Jacquard Damask Secret

While the film dialogue implies the fabric came straight from the bedroom drapes, the material chosen for the costumes was a specific, high-quality textile. The fabric used was a jacquard fabric with a damask print in a distinct green and white pattern.

This was a deliberate choice by costume designer Dorothy Jeakins to give the garments a weighty, canvas-like texture, making them look convincingly like heavy drapery material that had been salvaged and repurposed.

2. The Costume Designer Was an Oscar Legend

The woman responsible for the look was the celebrated Dorothy Jeakins, a three-time Academy Award winner.

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Jeakins was a towering figure in Hollywood costume design, having worked on epics like The Ten Commandments.

Interestingly, despite the cultural impact of her work on The Sound of Music, she did not win the Oscar for it, though she did receive an Academy Award nomination in 1966 for her efforts.

3. The Outfits Sold for a Staggering $1.56 Million at Auction

The cultural value of the "curtain clothes" is immense, but their financial value is even more shocking. In 2013, a collection of costumes from the film, including the iconic drapery outfits, was sold at a Profiles in History auction in California.

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The entire collection of nearly two dozen costumes, including the curtain clothes, Maria’s novice dress, and Captain von Trapp’s suits, fetched a staggering $1.56 million.

This high price tag solidified their status not just as movie memorabilia but as priceless artifacts of pop culture history.

4. They Are Still on Display in Major 2025 Exhibitions

Decades after the film's release, the costumes continue to draw crowds. The 60th anniversary of the film has led to several high-profile exhibitions, some running well into 2025.

The Salzburg Museum and Schloss Leopoldskron have hosted special exhibits celebrating the film's legacy.

One exhibition, running from July to September 2025, specifically focuses on how the traditional Austrian dirndl gained international fame through the film, featuring original costumes and designs, including the curtain clothes.

5. The Real Maria Von Trapp Did Not Use Curtains

The most enduring myth of the film is Maria's resourcefulness. While the real Maria von Trapp was indeed practical and often made clothes for the children, the dramatic moment of cutting up the drapes was a Hollywood invention.

In the 1930s, it was common for families of all economic levels to repurpose materials for clothing, often using flour sacks or old bed linens.

The film’s decision to use the Captain's luxurious, expensive drapes was a powerful cinematic device to highlight the clash between Maria’s simple, loving nature and the Captain’s aristocratic coldness.

6. The Designs Were Unique for Each Child

Dorothy Jeakins ensured that the seven outfits were not just simple, identical smocks. She designed each piece to reflect the age and personality of the child, using different styles from the same green and white damask print.

• Liesl's Curtain Dress: A sophisticated sundress style, appropriate for the eldest daughter.
• Friedrich's Lederhosen: The traditional Bavarian shorts were adapted from the curtain material, a nod to authentic Austrian clothing.
• Other children (Louisa, Kurt, Brigitta, Marta, Gretl) received play suits and dresses that were sturdy and functional for outdoor play.

7. The Child Actors Revived the Pattern for a Modern Cause

In a recent, heartwarming twist that brought the curtain clothes full circle, the surviving child actors from the film—including Debbie Turner (Marta) and Kym Karath (Gretl)—participated in a modern-day tribute.

They wore and promoted face masks made with a pattern directly inspired by the iconic green and white damask print of the original curtain clothes.

This effort, which took place during a period of global crisis, served as a powerful reminder of the costumes’ enduring message of resourcefulness, family, and hope, proving that the spirit of Maria's sewing project continues to inspire new generations.

The Enduring Topical Authority of Cinematic Costume

The curtain clothes, or "Drapery Outfits," are more than just a memorable scene; they represent a pivotal moment in the film where Maria truly becomes a mother to the children, transforming a symbol of the Captain's wealth into a uniform of their newfound unity and freedom. The simplicity of the idea—making something from nothing—resonates deeply with audiences worldwide, contributing to the film's lasting cultural touchstone status.

The detailed work of Dorothy Jeakins, the high resale value at auction, and the continued public interest through Salzburg exhibitions and the actors' recent charitable efforts all confirm that this costume design is a cornerstone of cinematic history, influencing everything from fashion to sewing enthusiasts globally.