In celebration of women designers, The Met unveils “Women Dressing Women,” an exhibition brought forth to recognize the important contributions of women-led fashion houses and their artistic legacies.
Running until March 3, “Women Dressing Women” showcases the creations of over 70 designers, including notable names like Vivienne Westwood, Miuccia Prada, Gabriela Hearst, Claire McCardell, and Rei Kawakubo for Comme des Garçons, among a plethora of other talented names. The exhibition embraces centuries of fashion history’s most influential designers and offers visitors an exploration of the past, present, and future through hints of “anonymity, visibility, agency, and absence/omision.”
For Max Hollein, The Met’s Marina Kellen French Director and CEO, the exhibition will amplify voices that would historically go unheard, giving women a platform to celebrate their artistry. “The spectacular garments on view will inspire a renewed appreciation for the multidisciplinary talents at the heart of this vibrant art form and for the countless women whose contributions were, and continue to be, the lifeblood of the global fashion industry we see today,” Hollein said.
The display is divided into various sections. The Carl and Iris Barrel Apfel Gallery examines the nature of design by women designers in Paris, while the LIzzie and Jonathan Tisch Gallery delves into generational shift and opportunities for women within fashion. To conclude, the final display highlights designers who have recently been recognized for their talents.