Harlem Fashion Row decided after reading an article in July 2010 issue of Vogue Magazine decided to visit the costume collections exhibit "American Woman" at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City. We were pulled in after reading about the event, which, Oprah and Lady Gaga collaborated together. They threw a gala at the Met in commemoration of the opening of the exhibit. The event was lavish and all of the who's who in the fashion industry and social media where there dressed in ball gowns, this event was no ordinary affair. We decided to make a trip together to get inspiration and see what everyone is buzzing about. The exhibit was amazing anything beyond my expectations and I have been an attendee of the Met’s costume collection for many years now. Once you walk in you are pulled into a world of fashion and beauty. There were seven different sections to lead you through the fashion pass times of the American women. The first room was for the Heiress were walls were painted full of fireplaces, Venetian doors, and classic furniture. A glass chandelier was hanging from the ceiling and the lite tune of classical music was hanging in the air. This is where fashion started in the upper-class homes where women could afford only the best designs. The next room showcased the famous Gibson girl 1890’s. Here the creation sports was the main feature, tennis, ice skating, swimming and bike riding garments were all on display along with the walls painted to set the mood of recreation. The next room was dedicated to the Bohemian 1900’s, the woman who was concerned with social status but was more involved with the arts. Here the mood was darker and created a scene of older mature style. The next movement of the American woman was the Suffragist 1910’s. Women were fighting for voting rights and the exhibit takes you into a room of ceiling high black and white video of women fighting for there rights. The clothing shown was the uniform women wore during this time to take their stand. The next room was one of my favorites, which focused on the Flapper of the 1920’s where the lower hipline appeared. The garments chosen for this section were all adorn with detailed beading and fabrications, which inspired me to go home and embroider. The Screen Siren 1950’s was the last room leading to the end where old movie clips were shown and long gowns sitting and standing graced a circular room. This was my favorite room due to the glamorous designs and red carpet appeal. The exhibit ended in a wall of photos of amazing women that have made a difference either through fashion, politics, movies, music and media. It was a great end to the exhibit to wrap up the fact women has made a difference more than just fashion.
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