Costume institute new york

The Costume Institute!

The Costume Institute is a department of the Metropolitan Museum of Art (The Met) in New York City, dedicated to the study and exhibition of fashion and costume design. It is one of the most renowned and respected fashion institutions in the world.

The Costume Institute was founded in 1937, and its mission is to explore the art of fashion and its relationship to culture, history, and society. The institute's exhibitions and programs aim to promote a deeper understanding and appreciation of fashion as an art form, as well as its role in shaping our identities and cultures.

Each year, the Costume Institute presents a major exhibition, often in collaboration with a prominent fashion designer or brand. These exhibitions are highly anticipated events in the fashion world, attracting thousands of visitors from around the globe.

Some notable exhibitions and themes from the Costume Institute include:

  1. "Heavenly Bodies: Fashion and the Catholic Imagination" (2018) - an exploration of the relationship between fashion and Catholicism.
  2. "Rei Kawakubo/Comme des Garçons: Art of the In-Between" (2017) - a retrospective of the work of Japanese designer Rei Kawakubo and her brand Comme des Garçons.
  3. "Manus x Machina: Fashion in an Age of Technology" (2016) - an examination of the intersection of fashion and technology.
  4. "China: Through the Looking Glass" (2015) - an exploration of the influence of Chinese culture on Western fashion.
  5. "Punk: Chaos to Couture" (2013) - a look at the impact of punk rock on fashion.

The Costume Institute also hosts various programs and events throughout the year, including lectures, symposia, and fashion shows. These events bring together fashion industry professionals, scholars, and enthusiasts to discuss and celebrate the art of fashion.

The Met's Costume Institute is located in the Anna Wintour Costume Center, named after the legendary editor-in-chief of Vogue magazine, who has been a long-time supporter of the institute. The center features a state-of-the-art exhibition space, as well as a library and research center dedicated to the study of fashion and costume design.

Overall, the Costume Institute is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in fashion, art, and culture. Its exhibitions and programs offer a unique and inspiring look at the world of fashion, and its influence extends far beyond the fashion industry itself.