Paris is a fashion capital of the world. To honor the artistry responsible for clothing royalty, supermodels and mere mortals, the Paris-inspired Philadelphia International Festival of the Arts (PIFA), explores Parisian fashion—past and present.
First, Drexel University’s Antoinette Westphal College of Media Arts and Design presents “Brave New World: Fashion and Freedom, 1911-1919.” See how trendsetters abandoned the corset, shortened both hair and hemline, and replaced the subdued Edwardian color palate with fashionable black and bright colors. The exhibit displays historic garment and accessories from the Drexel Historic Costume Collection at the Leonard Pearlstein Gallery from April 7-May 7. Click here more information; admission is free.
Then on April 8, contemporary couture comes to the Kimmel Center’s Commonwealth Plaza. This Paris-inspired fashion show will feature new looks from professional designers and top student designers, featuring Carmelita Martell, Sarah Van Aken, Jaames Nelson, Katie Ermilio, Bela Shehu, Kristin Haskins-Simms, Priscilla Costa, Janice Martin and Melanie Brandon. Additionally, Philadelphia native couture designer Ralph Rucci will receive the Visionary Award for Fashion. Tickets range from $25-$100 and can be purchased by clicking here.
For more information follow the Philadelphia International Festival of the Arts on Facebook and Twitter, and stay tuned to Traveling IQ for continued coverage, with PIFA’s support.
