Brooklyn Museum between September 10, 2021, to February 20, 2022, is hosting a very interesting and important exhibition of Haute Couture.
Christian Dior, one of the most important representatives of Parisian Fashion and Haute Couture. It traces the history of the famous designer that has been the favourite for many, like Grace Kelly, Princess Diana and Audrey Hepburn. The “New Look” that Dior introduced the world to the life-changing designs in 1947 with the circle dress and the boatneck, exceptionally sported by none other than Audrey Hepburn on numerous occasions, including her wedding in 1959. The passing and interchanging eras are becoming more apparent as the visitor wanders around comparing the humble and more conservative beginning in the 40s with the complete contrast of the vibrant 50s and 60s.
The visitor immerses in the Dior archives, including photographs, never seen before sketches, vintage perfume elements, accessories and works from the Museum. Dior is the absolute expression of grace and refined garments. Dior, however, was linked not only to finesse but also was a primary point of reference to the French Resistance during World War II, hiding Jews and helping those in need.
In the exhibition, they are also presented the artistic Directors that succeeded him, the list includes Yves Saint Laurent, Marc Bohan, Gianfranco Ferré, John Galliano, Raf Simons, and Maria Grazia Chiuri. The redesigned Atrium and its transformation to an enchanted garden feature garments worn by the wonderful Grace Kelly to Jennifer Lawrence.
The exhibition is curated by Florence Müller, Avenir Foundation Curator of Textile Art and Fashion, Denver Art Museum, in collaboration with Matthew Yokobosky, Senior Curator of Fashion and Material Culture, Brooklyn Museum. It has also been supported by the American Ballet Dancers, with a wonderful video circulating around on social media, featuring ABT’s Principals, including Hee Seo and Isabella Boylston.
It is strongly advised and is definitely worth the trip to Brooklyn Museum to attend this beautiful exhibition, of course, covid mask and full vaccination mandate are in place, while all precautions are still in place.