Brady Adair |

26 Jan

Posted at 11:34h in Art Exhibition by Brady

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As a young girl, Sandy Schreier relished visits to the Illinois department store where her father worked as a furrier during the mid-20^th century. During this reign of department stores, her father’s position afforded her a view into a world of aspirational beauty with elegant, well dressed ladies perusing the floors. Their clothing fascinated her and led to a life-long love of collecting garments, not as a means to expand her own wardrobe but for the appreciation of the artistry of the couturiers and manufacturers of fine clothing and accessories.

As a generous gift, Ms. Schreier has promised her collection to The Metropolitan Museum of Art as part of The Met’s 2020 Collections Initiative celebrating the museum’s 150^th birthday, where they will enter a new phase of stewardship and protection for the wider public to see and study.

The assemblage is awe-inspiring for those who are captivated by dress. Here is a style history spanning the entire 20^th century. With a careful eye and remarkable clarity, Ms. Schreier amassed an impressive array of ensembles and various accessories that both reflect artistic aesthetics in couture as well as solid craftsmanship in the production of ready-to-wear, which became the dominant force in fashion retail after the Second World War. And with a complete focus on quality and condition, she also made acquisitions by lesser known designers and garment companies, which provide refreshing examples from the various periods.

Words can only express so much when discussing clothing—only photos can do the show justice so below is a range of images showing the breadth and variety of her compilation.

The exhibition runs through May 17 and is a treat for anyone interested in historical dress as well as an inspiration for someone wishing to start their own collection!