Charles James Tree Ball Gown
My friend Rachel invited me to go with her to the Legion of Honor in San Francisco to view the special exhibit on fashion, High Style. Rachel is a member of quite a few of the museums in San Francisco and loves to invite her friends to go with her to different exhibits depending on who's interested in which type of art. She's allowed a free pass once a month and we, her friends, play chauffeur so everyone is happy. With my background of being a swimwear designer it was a delight to be able to view so many choice pieces of fashion that are in the Brooklyn Museum's costume collection. The exhibit is open until July 19, 2015 so there's still plenty of time to go and see it.
Arnold Scaasi Evening Ensemble
Christian Dior Sequin Evening Dress
Christian Dior Sequin Evening Dress detail
Bonnie Cashin Evening Dress
Sally Victor Hat
Steven Arpad Evening Shoe Prototype
Steven Arpad Evening Shoes
Elsa Schiaparelli Necklace
Charles James Diamond Evening Dress
Charles James Clover Leaf Evening Ball Gown
As you probably can tell, I was quite enamored with the work of Charles James. He took a love of architecture and engineering and used it to build marvelous gowns for women. A few of the gowns had digital displays that also showed x-rays of the gowns' bones so to say. Here's one of the Tree ball gown.
There's also work from Mainbocher, Madame Vionnet, Chanel, as well as other well known inspirational fashion designers. It was such a treat to see these works up close and in person. Pictures just don't do them justice. So if you have an opportunity to see it, do it! And if you have time then go to the cafe' and try their Coco Channel dish ... a yummy fresh fish ceviche with avocados.
The Arch Entrance to the Legion of Honor in San Francisco on a beautiful sunny day
