Post an image of one object from the exhibition you visited. Address why you think this object was included in the exhibition (use the exhibition’s mission statement as a guide). What contribution does the object make to fashion history and culture? What relationship does the object have with the body? Include information from the lecture, website, and course readings to support your answer.
All garments from Andre Courreges,
white hat from Pierre Cardin
According to the exhibition’s mission statement, Expedition: Fashion from the Extreme is the first major exhibition to explore the interesting relationship between garments developed for survival in harsh and rare environments. In addition to this, lots of designers are inspired by them. The picture above is from Andre Courreges collection, and the designer was famous for embracing Space Age aesthetic. I think the looks more futuristic and technological by designing with the fabric, silhouette, color and the way of stitching. Most of all, the fabric, neoprene makes the fashion world different. Neoprene is a synthetic rubber that’s often used to make wetsuits, hence its alternative name “scuba.” For fashion designer, it offers more opportunity to experiment with silhouette due to its moldable quality. In addition to this, neoprene is wrinkle free and thick so it is a perfect addition to winter/fall wardrobe. It makes your body movement free since the fabric is opaque and not stretching out. It stays in its original form. As a fashion student and designer, it is an easy fabric to work with generally since neoprene does not fray or slip. Also, it does not need lining which one of the great strength. In other point of view, neoprene is great for creating pattern and textile because it holds photorealistic patterns well so it’s common to see unique and intricate patterns printed all over a dress. Personally, the 2007 Alexander Mcqueen collection was breathtaking due to neoprene and the printing on it. Likewise, the beginning of neoprene design granted the variety of designs. Also, it gave more option to wear and the pleasure of choosing diverse silhouette for people.
