Article Written By: Brad Goodspeed
As I was searching for an exit to the New York MET after becoming incredibly lost, I found a hidden treasure of fashion history tucked away in the depths of the museum after navigating the Egyptian section. A remarkable exhibition of fashion, with pieces dating all the way back to 1908, entitled ‘In pursuit of fashion - the Sandy Schreier collection.’ I found myself drawn to what I can only describe as a fantastic collection of mid-century fashion, with each piece on display telling their own story. A display of the beauty, glamour and drama from American and French pre and postwar couture.
In Pursuit of Beauty
Schreier describes her approach to building this collection of mid-century American and French fashion, which was amassed over the course of over half a century, as simply “seeking beauty.” Inspired by sources like Golden Age Hollywood films, Schreier acquired compelling pieces from the wardrobes of stylish women in her younger years. This collection is a portrayal of her preference for Hollywood glamour and drama - with glamorous designs by innovative couturiers such as Gilbert Adrian; along with the drama reflected in French postwar high-fashion.
Fashion that speaks
The pieces on display reflect the postwar period of fashion which served to continue the tradition of displaying superiority with glamour and beauty. The amount of clothing, each from different eras, drives this narrative of superiority by mirroring tastes of popular culture, dress and art which developed over the mid-century period. Each garment conveys the unique and distinct personalities of their couturiers, each piece with its own story; acting as small pieces of a puzzle towards completing individual huge biographies.
In Pursuit of Fashion
With this collection noted as “one of the finest private fashion collections in the United States”, the showcase allows the public to gaze upon a treasure of twentieth-century French and American haute couture. Stepping into the room, one can instantly appreciate the form of creative expression provided by renowned designers - featuring 1930s collections from House of Chanel and 50s Balenciaga, to 90s Moschino and Millenium Alexander McQueen, this is a collection worth your time if you find yourself in Manhattan.
Article Written By: Brad Goodspeed
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