One of the (many) wonderful things about living in New York City are our incredible museums. Every summer, the Metropolitan Museum of Art hosts their annual Costume Institute exhibit. It is always a treat to see what people wear (or don't wear) but for me, the most exciting part is going to the exhibit afterwards.

This year, I made a point to go on a quiet day and soak in the beauty. The Met is such an amazing museum. One can spend hours, days, weeks there and never get tired of it. I often see something that has probably been there forever, but I notice it for the first time. Please come! Come and explore and give New York and the Met some love!

Per the Met’s official press release, the theme of this year’s show and the opening dates are as follows;

“Presented at The Met Fifth Avenue from May 10 through September 2, 2024, the exhibition will feature original research, conservation analysis, and diverse technologies to revive and explore the sensory capacities of masterworks in the Museum’s collection. Using the natural world as a uniting visual metaphor for the transience of fashion, the show will explore cyclical themes of rebirth and renewal, breathing new life into these storied objects through creative and immersive activations designed to convey the smells, sounds, textures, and motions of garments that can no longer directly interact with the body.”

Today, I thought it would be nice to share some of my favorites from this show, including these vintage Dior confections.

When conceptualizing this show, the Costume Institute notes that once a garment is entered into the Met collection, the purpose and importance of the garment is forever changed. No longer simply a work of design, these gowns become instead an important touchstone in design history.

Personally, I will always be drawn to, and in awe of, garments that celebrate and value the art of hand beading and embroidery. The living history of these techniques has always been important to me as a working designer, and even more-so visually compelling as an admirer.

Introducing unusual materials - paper, neoprene, metal and finishes transforms these garments from design to pieces of wearable sculpture.

But sometimes, the most enduringly classic garments embody classic silhouettes and feminine details.

Sleeping Beauties: Reawakening Fashion also offers the viewer a variety of statement and incredible accessories that are part of the collection. I loved this shell handbag! How incredible is that?!

If you are in town before September 2, I cannot recommend this show enough - and nothing is as good as seeing these works in person. If that is not possible for you this summer, I hope these photos offered a welcomed and inspirational preview.

Addendum