Betsy Bloomingdale and the Battle of Versailles

Post Betsy Bloomingdale

In the mid-20th century, the splendor of the Palace of Versailles, former home to France’s kings, queens, and emperors, had drastically faded. The palace was in extreme disrepair, facing millions of dollars worth of renovations to restore it to its former glory. Cut to 1973: Versailles Chief Curator Gerald Van der Kemp and his wife Read More »

Le Quatorze Juillet

Post 20th century, André Courrèges, Azzedine Alaia, Boue Soeurs, Chanel, Christian Dior, Haute couture, Hubert de Givenchy, Jacques Fath, Madeleine Vionnet, Paul Poiret, Thierry Mugler, Yves Saint Laurent

What better time than Bastille Day to celebrate French fashion?  We've written extensively about French designers represented in the FIDM Museum Collection on our blog; below, you'll find links to just a few of our favorite articles. Who is your favorite designer from France? Tell us in the comments section! Paul Poiret TunicPaul Poiretc. 1913Purchase 2008.25.4 Boué Soeurs Read More »

Erin go Bragh

Post Uncategorized

Happy St. Patrick’s Day! Today, the Chicago River runs green, revelers sip green beer, and millions of people around the world don the color of the Emerald Isle. If you forgot to wear your favorite green shirt, ask this question before you fall victim to a pinch – should we be wearing blue instead? St. Read More »