One of the things i miss most about living in NYC, is being able to visit my Alma Mater and dropping into the Museum when I am in need of inspiration. Luckily for me, the Museum has published a hardcover book this month, in celebration of their 50th year, giving me a piece of home wherever I take it.
Edited by Valerie Steele, one of the foremost fashion historians and curators, Exhibitionism: 50 Years of the Museum at FIT highlights some of the most impactful shows, out of the 200 the museum has produced throughout the years. They have curated presentations that celebrate fashion from around the world, and earned the title of “the most fashionable museum in New York.” It has shown great works from student showcases, all the way up to haute couture fashion royalty.
Each exhibition included in the book is illustrated using installation photos, images of individual garments, and texts that explain the exhibitions’ concepts, scope and influence as well as the objects it featured. I received a copy for review, so I immediately took a trip down memory lane and imagined walking through the exhibit space, and being in awe of the beautiful designs. I wanted to share some of my favorites from the book, as well as some I saw in person while a student.
Givenchy | May 11th - October 2nd, 1982
My favorite designer of all time is Hubert de Givenchy. In my opinion his relationship with Audrey Hepburn as is his muse, is the most iconic fashion duo of all time. There will never be a greater pairing because their love for fashion, and each other is unparalleled.
Co-chaired by Audrey herself, The Gala opened in late Spring of 1982, and featured over 100 garments from the previous 30 years of Givenchy’s career, as well as showcased his Couture collection from that season. The museum was one of the only place in NY to truly celebrate fashion as art at the time.
Madame Grès: The Sphinx of Fashion | February 1st - April 19, 2008
During my last semester in the Fashion Merchandising Management AAS program, the Madame Grès exhibit was showcased. I have always been inspired by sculptural dresses in the Grecian style during the Old Hollywood Glamour Era, as well as chic yet comfortable caftans during the 60s. I was also in awe that a woman was so resilient while defying tyrannical orders during the German occupation of France during WWII.
In my personal opinion, I believe she was the 2nd most influential French couturiers due to her meticulous detailing, and knowledge of dressmaking. I recall walking through the exhibit, and wanting my own collection to mimic her goddess dresses, once I completed my degree.
Black Fashion Designers | December 6, 2016 - May 16, 2017
As a black fashion professional, I know how difficult it can be for us to find a way in the industry we love. In 2017, MFIT showcased black designers and I immediately wanted to fly home to see the show in person.
It is rare that we obtain positions as creative directors, and even more rare that we achieve major success in the realm of high fashion and couture. I was extremely happy that MFIT created this exhibit, and also that the authors went into greater detail on why it is important to appreciate the talents of black designers.
While I only highlighted 3 exhibits from before, during, and after my tenure at FIT, the book features 30 more shows. Each one includes the authors’ behind-the-scenes look at the process of exhibition making, and MFIT’s historic commitment to fashion accompanied by installation photos, and images of individual garments. It also includes essays about the inclusivity in the industry, fashion education at MFIT, and highlights the role of hands-on, object based learning.
If you would like a copy of your own, the book is now available for purchase on Barnes & Nobles Online, select Barnes & Nobles locations nationwide, and Amazon Online.