Fashion show at Southdale Center, Minnesota, ca. 1956

One of the most innovative features of the Southdale Shopping Center was the centrally located “Garden Court,” an area approximately the size of a city block bursting with tropical plants and greenery, a sparkling fountain and goldfish pond, a two-story bird cage and art sculptures that provided for an exotic feel. Skylights contributed to the area’s nature-like environment. Shown here are clothing models walking a runway during a fashion show held in the Garden Court, with spectators on both levels of the mall viewing the festivities.