Schiaparelli and Prada: Impossible Conversations

T-Shirt and Shoe Ornament by Prada
Yesterday I went to The Metropolitan Museum of Art for the new Schiaparelli and Prada exhibit. It was such a wonder to see two intelligent, progressive, and Italian female minds collaborate and synchronize despite the decades that separate them. As you first enter the exhibit, a film plays that sets the stage for the rest of your journey. The title Impossible Conversations is to be taken literally as Miuccia and Elsa (played by Judy Davis) talk casually about their histories and philosophies. Elsa Schiaparelli passed away in 1973 of course, making the pairing physically impossible, but it is also unbelievable just how well their designs match when the clothes are separated by more than 65 years. Jackets made in the 1930s melt into skirts fabricated in our time to create a seamless match that had me scratching my head. It was as if Schiaparelli and Prada had designed for the same collections. You can see it in the prints and trims as well as the proportions and sensibility in the clothing designed ultimately by and for Italian women. One of my favorite conversations to watch was the discussion of whether or not fashion is an art; Schiaparelli says that it is with conviction, while Prada believes fashion to be a business first. I think that fashion is an art, but Miuccia's point about clothing being designed to sell has merit. She goes on to say that even "art" isn't art and that no one should really care. I think this means that art is what you want or need it to be and that for her personally it is mainly her livelihood. Whatever her stance may be, it is undeniable that Miuccia Prada is a visionary, sharing Elsa Schiaparelli's design sense in pushing boundaries for womenswear in a timeless and artful modern way.

If you are looking for the grandeur of the McQueen exhibit, be prepared to feel a little stunted. This exhibit is nowhere near as large or thorough, but it is still impressive. I recommend setting time aside to really watch each of the conversations, directed by none other than Baz Luhrmann. Don't miss out on the moving pictures in the last room! The gift shop does not disappoint for the exhibit. Pictured above is the very charming Prada Flame shoe ornament. Everyone was in a panic over the Mcqueen shoe, but I saw a surplus for both exhibits so don't worry. The book is a great read as well. Inside the cloth bound text contains the transcribed conversations between Schiaparelli and Prada and excellent photographs of the curated pieces, intimate close ups of the textiles and patterns, and original editorials from the 1930s. If you are Asian have OCD like me, ask for a new copy still wrapped in plastic because the cover is a bit delicate and I saw a few with scratches and hand prints. Jewelry, scarves, and nylon handbags from various iconic Prada collections are also available. I have my eye on the foulard with the James Jean prints from the fairy collection!! - jerome

Balenciaga and Spain

STROLLERS ARE NOT PERMITTED IN THE EXHIBITION

In front of the de Young Museum, San Francisco
I took my PS1 for a test drive to the Balenciaga and Spain exhibit at the de Young Museum in San Francisco's Golden Gate park. Cristobal Balenciaga is one of my favorite couturiers, and being a fan of Nicolas Ghesquière (who was notably absent from the opening gala) and the house in modern times, the exhibit was all the more exciting. I have to say that it was a gorgeous day in the park: sun, laughing children, and POLLEN. It is a little embarrassing to go to an exhibit such as this and sneeze the entire time. I crossed my fingers and prayed for a break in my allergies - at least until the gift shop.

Photo via The de Young
Balenciaga and Spain is a marvelous collection of beautiful pieces, both garments and accessories, from Balenciaga's career. The exhibition is thoughtfully divided into 6 sections, each highlighting a key influence in Balenciaga's work: Spanish Art, Regional Dress, the Spanish Court, Religious Life and Ceremony, the Bullfight, and Dance. There is a true sense of Spanish culture in the works presented. The frills and drama of the flamenco dancer, the volume of the farthingales in Spanish royal fashion, and the intricacy and detail in a matador's bolero are all translated into the most elegant of garments. It is inspiring to see how Balenciaga was able to incorporate his heritage into clothing without producing costume, while at the same time creating visionary modern pieces in the budding fashion world of the 1960's. I highly recommend checking out the exhibit at The de Young March 26, 2011 - July 4, 2011.

A few tips: 1. Students receive a discount for admission 2. Those with proof of public transportation will receive an additional discount 3. Even if it is warm outside, the light and temperature controlled exhibit is a bit cold (as to protect the garments) so bring a sweater or extra layer

- jerome