Category: 1980-1989
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1948-1987 – Willi Smith
Willi Smith was the popularly renowned designer behind Williwear, a womenswear line that opened in 1976. He was known for his innovative blend of the newly-emerging concept of streetwear with high fashion.
Read More1986 – Patrick Kelly, Sleeveless black dress with buttons
Patrick Kelly is remembered for his skin-tight dresses, design affinity for buttons and hearts, and his joyous attitude — all which are manifested in this 1986 dress.
Read More1981 – David and Elizabeth Emanuel, Princess Diana’s Wedding Dress
Princess Diana’s wedding dress, made by the Emanuel Salon, combines historical inspirations and a fairytale look with strict royal tradition. Its influence on the bridal world can still be seen today.
Read More1954-1990 – Patrick Kelly
Patrick Kelly was the first American designer ever to be admitted to the Chambre Syndicale du Prêt-à-Porter, which governs the French ready-to-wear industry. He unapologetically incorporated his Southern Roots, racial imagery, and expressions of Black joy into his designs; stating “I want my clothes to make you smile.”
Read More1984 – Jean Paul Gaultier, Cone bra corset dress
Jean Paul Gaultier’s ruched velvet dresses represented a 1980s riff on the 1950s bullet bra, taken to sexual and material extremes.
Read MoreDavid Bowie Is
An exhibition about the internationally acclaimed artist David Bowie (1947-2016) faces its final curtain call at the Brooklyn Museum.
Read More1989 – Nicola Bowery, Ensemble
This ensemble was created by Nicola Bowery out of repurposed Gap denim jacket and Levi’s jeans. During the 1970s and 1980s, Punks and New Romantics would repurpose garments to breathe more personality and creativity into them to show their individuality.
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