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WILD: Fashion Untamed
December 7, 2004–March 13, 2005
The Costume Institute, ground floor
WILD: Fashion Untamed presents an extensive exploration of man's ongoing obsession with animalism as expressed through clothing. Since prehistoric times, fur and feathers have been used not only for warmth and protection but also for display and adornment, an expression of sexual and economic exhibitionism. Focusing on contemporary constructions of the fur-clad "Bourgeois Woman," WILD also explores her moral counterpart—the anti-fur-wearing "Ethical Woman"—as represented in the advertising campaigns of People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA). Pelts and plumes have come to define other ideals of femininity by quoting the physical and sexual characteristics of birds and beasts. Examples on view include Alexander McQueen's "Amazon" dresses, Azzedine Alaïa's "Tigress" bodysuits, and Thierry Mugler's "Black Widow" architectonic constructions. The exhibition also features fantastic feathered costumes of Las Vegas showgirls and coquettish "Birds of Paradise" creations by milliners Philip Treacy and Stephen Jones.
Accompanied by a catalogue.
The exhibition is made possible by Roberto Cavalli.
Additional support has been provided by John and Laura Pomerantz.
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