Having (sadly) not visited the de Young Museum since it re-opened in 2005, the Oscar de la Renta exhibit was great motivation to go. Oscar de la Renta: The Retrospective is simply exquisite.
“This world premiere retrospective of Oscar de la Renta’s work celebrates the life and career of one of fashion’s most influential designers. The exhibition will include more than 130 pieces produced over five decades, and is presented in collaboration with the house of de la Renta and the designer’s family. These garments are organized into several thematic sections: early work; Spanish, Eastern, Russian and garden influences; daywear and eveningwear; and ball gowns and red carpet ensembles. The presentation traces the rise of de la Renta’s career in Spain, where he gained his first commissions; his formative years spent in the world’s most iconic fashion houses; and his eventual role as a designer for many of the most influential and celebrated personalities of the 20th and 21st centuries.” Source
Although pictures do not do these works justice, here are some of my favorites.
Left: The shape of this black gown is divine. What appears to be lace is actually satin appliqué throughout the entire piece. Right: The precision in which these gilded feathers compose the bodice of this gold lame gown must be appreciated in person.
Intricate beading and embroidery are my favorite details, executed perfectly in these very different and stunning cocktail dresses.
The garden-inspired section was a highlight. Though difficult to discern in these photos, the backdrop was made of intricately cut and intertwined papers. A wall complete with TV screens gave the effect of walking through a beautiful garden.
The finale was a show stopper — a hot pink carpet graced with gowns recently worn on the red carpet by celebrities, such as Jessica Chastain, Sarah Jessica Parker, Taylor Swift and Amy Adams. If you have ever watched the red carpet interviews in which the lucky ladies donning the gowns talk about the amount of work that goes into making a haute couture gown, you will understand why when you see them in person. And be sure to do just that — see the Retrospective for yourself — before it closes on May 30th.
Image of Taylor Swift: Charles Sykes/Invision, Amy Adams: Getty Images; Sarah Jessica Parker: AFP PHOTO/Timothy A. CLARY/AFP/Getty Images. All other photos original to RevolvingDecor.com.
