Step into the world of fashion and witness a long-overdue celebration of women designers at The Costume Institute's exhibition, 'Women Dressing Women.' This groundbreaking showcase at the Metropolitan Museum of Art pays homage to the creativity and artistic legacy of female designers who have often been overlooked. From iconic names like Rei Kawakubo and Miuccia Prada to emerging talents like No Sesso and Collina Strada, this exhibition highlights the historically underappreciated voices that continue to shape the global fashion industry. Join us on a journey through time as we explore the diverse contributions of women in fashion from the 20th Century onwards.

Honoring the Forgotten Female Designers

Shining a spotlight on the often overlooked women designers who have made significant contributions to the fashion industry.

For far too long, the fashion industry has predominantly celebrated male designers, leaving the talented women designers in the shadows. The 'Women Dressing Women' exhibition at The Costume Institute aims to change that narrative by honoring the forgotten female designers who have shaped the fashion landscape throughout history.

From the iconic creations of Rei Kawakubo and Miuccia Prada to the trailblazing designs of Jeanne Lanvin and Vivienne Westwood, this exhibition showcases the incredible talent and artistic legacy of women in fashion. It is a celebration of their creativity, innovation, and enduring influence.

By shedding light on these historically underappreciated voices, the exhibition not only pays tribute to their contributions but also highlights the vital role women continue to play in the global fashion industry today.

Exploring the Exhibition

Embark on a journey through time as you immerse yourself in the captivating world of 'Women Dressing Women' at The Costume Institute.

The exhibition is divided into four sections: Anonymity, Visibility, Agency, and Absence/Omission. Each section explores different aspects of women's experiences in the fashion industry and the challenges they have faced.

As you descend the white staircase, you will be greeted by three stunning black eveningwear pieces from European designers, setting the tone for the exhibition. These pieces represent the elegance and timeless beauty that women designers have brought to the fashion world.

Throughout the exhibition, you will encounter a curated collection of eighty pieces from the 20th Century onwards. From exquisite dresses to bold political fashion statements, each piece tells a story of the women who designed them and the impact they have had on the industry.

Immerse yourself in the written paragraphs that accompany each mannequin, providing insights into the designers' inspirations, techniques, and the cultural context of their creations. QR codes are scattered throughout, offering additional videos and multimedia experiences to enhance your understanding.

Political Fashion and Bold Statements

Discover the powerful political fashion pieces that capture the bold voice of women designers and their impact on society.

While the exhibition primarily focuses on celebrating women designers, it also highlights the powerful political statements they have made through their creations.

One notable piece is Vivienne Tam's Mao suit from her spring/summer 1995 collection. This black and white patterned suit depicts Chinese leader Mao Zedong, symbolizing the positive and negative effects of his influence on China. It serves as a reminder of the intersection between fashion, politics, and culture.

Another impactful piece is a 1985 t-shirt by British designer Katharine Hamnett. Known for her advocacy for sustainability and social issues, Hamnett's red silkscreen t-shirt was inspired by a protest against US nuclear weapons on British common land. It represents the power of fashion as a form of activism and the role women designers have played in driving social change.

Unveiling the Unsung Heroes

Discover the hidden gems of women designers who have made significant contributions but have often been overlooked.

While the exhibition showcases renowned women designers, it also shines a light on the unsung heroes of the fashion industry. Designers like Barbara Hulanicki, who ran the British brand Biba from 1963 to 1975, are given the recognition they deserve.

Biba was a revolutionary brand of the swinging 1960s, offering affordable and stylish clothing for a younger generation. Hulanicki's leopard print pantsuit, displayed in the exhibition, is a testament to her innovative designs and the impact she had on the fashion landscape.

These hidden gems serve as a reminder that women designers have been breaking stereotypes and pushing boundaries for decades, and their contributions should not be overlooked or overshadowed.