Sotheby’s and the Council of Fashion Designers of America (CFDA) have joined forces with renowned designer Thom Browne for an exciting new auction and exhibit called “Visions of America.” This unique showcase, curated by Browne himself, aims to highlight various aspects of American craftsmanship, including fine art, furniture, decorative arts, ceramics, books, manuscripts, and of course, fashion.
The fashion portion of the exhibit, aptly named “CFDA: Defining American Style,” boasts an impressive lineup of over 37 American fashion designers and brands. The proceeds from the fashion sales will be directed towards the CFDA Foundation, an organization that provides support for scholarships and business mentoring programs within the fashion industry.
To kick off this highly anticipated event, a glamorous cocktail party took place at Sotheby’s, attended by a star-studded list of industry figures such as Anna Wintour, Julia Fox, Evan Mock, and Jason Wu. This party marked the beginning of the New York fashion events for 2024, setting the tone for an exceptional showcase.
Within the exhibit, visitors can feast their eyes on a wide array of designs from both current and retired American designers, as well as those who have sadly passed away. Each designer was invited to submit a piece that held special meaning to them and represented their artistic journey, adding a personal touch to the display within one of the world’s finest galleries.
Among the standout pieces showcased in this exhibit is a remarkable red jersey gown created by Norma Kamali for the Statue of Liberty’s 1986 Centennial celebration. Other notable designs include contributions from the likes of Halston, Tom Ford, Diane von Furstenberg, Isaac Mizrahi, and Mary McFadden, just to name a few. The exhibit also proudly showcases contemporary designs from Khaite, Rick Owens, and Proenza Schouler, ensuring a perfect blend of both past and present in American fashion.
Notably, many celebrities and influential figures have donned these iconic designs on various occasions, from Kim Kardashian and Margot Robbie to Taylor Swift, Lady Gaga, and Jennifer Lopez, solidifying the impact and popularity of American fashion.
For Thom Browne, the curator of the exhibit, this collaboration holds immense significance as an opportunity to showcase his pride in being a distinctive American designer. He also expresses his deep appreciation for American art, recognizing its multifaceted nature and ability to tell diverse stories. Browne believes that through American art, he can explore his own narratives and challenge his perspectives, leading to a deeper understanding of the world and his craft.
Steven Kolb, the CEO of the CFDA, shares in Browne’s enthusiasm for this collaboration with Sotheby’s and the auctioning of significant American fashion pieces. He considers these items to be integral parts of fashion history, representing the range, craftsmanship, and unique stories that American fashion has to offer.
For designer Jason Wu, whose dress worn by actress Liu Wen is part of the exhibit, this collaboration serves as an opportunity to highlight the importance of American fashion while embracing his own Chinese roots. Wu believes that amidst the global influence of major conglomerates, the significance of American fashion can sometimes be overshadowed or forgotten. This collaboration allows him to reinforce the importance of American fashion in the wider industry.
In addition to the fashion exhibit, the gallery has been transformed into a splendid New York-style pied-a-terre designed by Corey Damen Jenkins. The exhibit also features other categories such as Western Art & Design, the Hudson River School in Focus, and Native American Art, making it a comprehensive celebration of American creativity.
Browne explains that the selection process for the exhibit was driven by instinct and personal taste. He chose pieces that resonated with him and that he could envision himself living with. This emphasis on the personal aspect of collecting adds an intimate touch to the exhibit and suggests the possibility of future collaborations.
The CFDA fashion sale, which began on January 9 and concludes on January 23, already has some clear favorites expected to be top sellers. These include an eye-catching shocking pink dress by Alice & Olivia, a vintage Bob Mackie gown from 1982, and a stunning piece by Michael Kors, ensuring a thrilling conclusion to this collaboration.
Overall, the collaboration between Sotheby’s, Thom Browne, and the CFDA serves as a remarkable celebration of American craftsmanship and fashion. It shines a spotlight on the diversity and creativity inherent in American design while also supporting scholarships and mentoring programs within the fashion industry. It’s an event that fashion enthusiasts and art lovers alike won’t want to miss.
Useful Links:
– Sotheby’s
– Council of Fashion Designers of America (CFDA)
