Go to content Go to navigation Go to search

‘Fashion & Politics’ Exhibit at the Museum at FIT

 Dress, white cotton with red ''IKE'' print, circa 1956, U.S.

Dress, white cotton with red ''IKE'' print, circa 1956, U.S.

You can tell a lot about a culture by the clothing you find people wearing.  An exhibit at the Museum at FIT (Fashion Institute of Technology) showcases the political side of clothing.  The Museum at FIT usually has some incredibly thought provoking and wonderful exhibits.

 Vivienne Tam, suit, black and white polyester in checkerboard pattern of "Mao" portraits, 1995, U.S.

Vivienne Tam, suit, black and white polyester in checkerboard pattern of "Mao" portraits, 1995, U.S.

However, the exhibit showcases more than simply patriotically themed garb, it’ also showcases also encompasses cultural change, sexual codes, and social progress.  It’s an incredibly fascinating  journey through the years of political systems and changes through the view of wardrobe.

Following the introduction, the exhibition presents an overview of fashion and related textiles and accessories that illustrates the interrelationship of fashion and politics from the nineteenth century to the present day.

 Rudi Gernreich, "Monokini" topless bathing suit, yellow and white wool, 1964, U.S.

Rudi Gernreich, "Monokini" topless bathing suit, yellow and white wool, 1964, U.S.

The view of fashion and the political roles they play highlights not only the culture and classes of the peoples of the world, but it also shows the various political systems that have been at play during the same times.

For example, a neoclassically inspired gown, circa 1805, conveys democratic ideals through the medium of fashion. Also on view are examples of late nineteenth century women’s sportswear, including a tailored bicycling ensemble and gym suit, which were inspired by earlier styles of reform dress such as the divided skirt and the bloomer.

Fashion and Politics is organized by Melissa Marra and Jennifer Farley, along with Colleen Hill, Harumi Hotta, and Lynn Weidner. The exhibition will be on view from July 7, 2009 through November 7, 2009 in the Fashion and Textile History Gallery at The Museum at FIT.

Recommended:

Winners of the Daytime Creative Emmy Awards

A New GM Switches Gears

Related posts

blog comments powered by Disqus

fashion Blogs - BlogCatalog Blog Directory
Add to Technorati Favorites
TopOfBlogs