Fashion offers us an escape, an escape from everyday constraints and an escape from how we should view one another. It is a form of art that we subconsciously present in our everyday lives. The way we dress and what we wear, creatively expresses who we are. As Yves Saint Laurent once said, “Fashions fade, style is eternal”. While walking through the Yves Saint Laurent and Halston exhibition, I came to the realization that although each garment has its own characteristics be it: color, pattern or concept, each piece is also a work of art within itself.
Many garments caught my eye and I have decided to examine a classic red gown and an elegant pink dress. The red gown featured on the right instantly catches the eye. Why might that be? Firstly, despite its simplistic attributes, it’s main color, a vibrant red, makes it difficult for the audience to miss. Its striking shade of red suggests strength of femininity. It emanates a sense of glamor and has the ability to make whoever is wearing it feel beautiful. I picture a glamorous woman who is proud and confident wearing this piece. Its plain yet boldly colored fabric combined with a woman who possesses a strong personality makes this gowns a statement piece. The structured bodice creates a flattering hourglass shape to the body and the way the fabric expands into an A-line finish gives off a sense of freedom and being effortless. Although a rather simple piece, its universal color being presented along with its complimenting shape allows the audience to appreciate and respect this work of art.
The pink gown presented on the left features amazing craftsmanship. Each petal has been hand sewn one by one on the delicate fabric, creating a 3D pattern within the garment. Alongside, the use of color, a pale pink and crème, suggests a calm yet elegant feel. Similar to the red gown, its flared finish although more structured from the chiffon, emanates flawlessness and effortless beauty. Despite the busyness of the petals in the lower region of the dress, combined with the top of the gown it creates the perfect balance and a successful piece. Unlike the first piece, this piece produces a sense of innocence. Its continuous layering of the sheer fabric almost indicates a timid side to whoever wears the dress. It is a soft piece, with soft colors thus making this garment the perfect combination of innocence in feminine beauty.
It may seem like any other gown and dress when we first view them, but its feminine values and aesthetics allow us to interpret otherwise. The simple designs of both these gowns remind us of the significance and power that beauty has within the world of fashion. It is evident that the development of fashion and art can be interpreted into our lives, culture and perceptions.
