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SU professor twists modern style with 18th century couture in Everson Museum exhibit
By Christine Robertson
Posted: 9/24/08, 12:20 AM EST Section: Feature
One of the flashier parts of the exhibit is the exoticism section, which features rich, jewel-toned dresses. A wooden screen adorned with painted toucans acts as a backdrop.
Two polyester dresses by Mary McFadden are featured: one emerald green and the other fuchsia and purple with elaborate beading. Two of the mannequins wear silk turbans with black, oversized feathers. The interesting objects sent from the Far East by Antoinette's mother inspired these styles.
The "at court" section of the exhibit presents a number of gowns by Oscar de la Renta, Karl Lagerfeld for Chanel and Valentino. One Caroline Herrera dress of black, gold and silver spreads out on a sitting mannequin, her head adorned by a miniature, gold dining chair.
The designers paid extensive detail to the jewelry and shoes. Dangling necklaces of pearl and crystal emblems hang around the mannequins' necks, perfecting the over-the-top look. Almost all shoes have some kind of beading or design incorporated into the finished product.
A total of 47 models have made a different world out of the Everson. Mayer has definitely created something for anyone who appreciates fashion of both the past and present. But the exhibit isn't limited to those who care about fashion. It is a work of art and a sight to see for almost anyone.
"I think that it is fascinating that there are so many vestiges left of a young French queen in today's style of dress," Mayer said. "She may be dead, but she is not forgotten."
carobe04@syr.edu
Two polyester dresses by Mary McFadden are featured: one emerald green and the other fuchsia and purple with elaborate beading. Two of the mannequins wear silk turbans with black, oversized feathers. The interesting objects sent from the Far East by Antoinette's mother inspired these styles.
The "at court" section of the exhibit presents a number of gowns by Oscar de la Renta, Karl Lagerfeld for Chanel and Valentino. One Caroline Herrera dress of black, gold and silver spreads out on a sitting mannequin, her head adorned by a miniature, gold dining chair.
The designers paid extensive detail to the jewelry and shoes. Dangling necklaces of pearl and crystal emblems hang around the mannequins' necks, perfecting the over-the-top look. Almost all shoes have some kind of beading or design incorporated into the finished product.
A total of 47 models have made a different world out of the Everson. Mayer has definitely created something for anyone who appreciates fashion of both the past and present. But the exhibit isn't limited to those who care about fashion. It is a work of art and a sight to see for almost anyone.
"I think that it is fascinating that there are so many vestiges left of a young French queen in today's style of dress," Mayer said. "She may be dead, but she is not forgotten."
carobe04@syr.edu
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