The Museum at the Fashion Institute of Technology (MFIT) is gearing up to pay tribute to the enduring influence of ballerinas on the world of high fashion with their upcoming exhibition, “Ballerina: Fashion’s Modern Muse.” Curated by MFIT’s deputy director, Patricia Mears, the exhibition is set to feature approximately 90 exquisite pieces that showcase the seamless blend of classical ballet and contemporary fashion.
Scheduled to run from February 11 to April 18, 2020, “Ballerina: Fashion’s Modern Muse” will highlight the impact of ballerina attire on haute couture and ready-to-wear designs from the 1930s through the early 1980s. Drawing items from MFIT’s permanent collection and esteemed British institutions, such as the Victoria and Albert Museum, the exhibition promises a captivating display of tutu-inspired skirts, leotard-influenced ensembles, and an array of dazzling ballet costumes.
Collaborators for the exhibition include the prestigious New York City Ballet, the iconic Dance Theatre of Harlem, and the private collection of esteemed fashion editor Hamish Bowles. Visitors can expect to see evening gowns by legendary designers like Gabrielle “Coco” Chanel and Christian Dior, as well as ballet costumes crafted by masterful designers such as Christian Bérard and Barbara Karinska.
The exhibition will also shine the spotlight on American ready-to-wear fashion, featuring pieces from renowned designers like Claire McCardell and Vera Maxwell. From knitted separates to activewear, attendees will have the opportunity to explore the fusion of ballet and fashion on both sides of the Atlantic. Notable highlights include Dame Margot Fonteyn’s couture wardrobe adorned with pieces by Christian Dior and Yves Saint Laurent.
According to curator Patricia Mears, the exhibition aims to showcase how the ballerina’s iconic wardrobe elements have inspired revered fashion designers for decades. With the growing popularity of classical ballet in recent years, the impact of ballet on fashion remains as significant as ever. Mears points out that many contemporary fashion collections continue to draw inspiration from the grace and elegance of ballet.
In addition to the exhibition, MFIT will be hosting a series of public events, including panels and symposiums, to delve deeper into the enduring connection between ballet and fashion. This comprehensive exploration of the interplay between dance and design promises to be a highlight for fashion enthusiasts and ballet aficionados alike.
For more information about “Ballerina: Fashion’s Modern Muse,” visit the Museum at the Fashion Institute of Technology’s website here, and stay updated on the latest news and events surrounding the exhibition. Click here to learn more about the exhibition’s schedule and related programming.
