The annual Metropolitan Museum of Art Costume Institute gala took place on Monday night, with all anticipated beauty, glamour, and fashion bewitchery that marks these occasions. The emphasis on elegance was heightened this year thanks to the subject of the Costume Institute exhibition: Charles James (1906–1978), the legendary Anglo-American couturier. James’ use of sculptural, scientific, and mathematical approaches to the design of ball gowns continues to influence designers today, as was abundantly manifest in many of the incredible garments that appeared on the red carpet on Monday evening. The exhibition, Charles James: Beyond Fashion, opened May 8th and features approximately 65 of James’ most notable designs. This video from the Metropolitan Museum offers you a glimpse of some gallery views. The spectacular exhibition catalogue does justice to the show, the clothing, and the designer himself, and we’d like to give you the chance to win a copy. The first respondent to answer the following question correctly will receive a copy of the book.
Where did Charles James complete his formal training as a dressmaker?
- The House of Worth, Paris
- The Maison Paquin, Paris
- The House of Paul Poiret, Paris
- Redfern & Sons, London
- Charles James had no formal training
Email your answer to yaleartbooks@gmail.com. And then learn more about James and the exhibition here and here.
Valid contest entries must include your name and a US or Canada shipping address. No purchase necessary. Privacy Policy.