Remembering James Galanos
All of us at the FIDM Museum were saddened to learn of James Galanos' passing at the age of 92 over the weekend. The Los Angeles-based couture designer was known for dressing the 20th century's brightest socialites, including Nancy Reagan and Betsy... Read Article ››

The Nude Look
"The nude look is the new look," Women's Wear Daily declared on February 15, 1966. In Paris, daring couturiers like Pierre Cardin and Yves Saint Laurent were crafting barely-there dresses of unlined chiffon, strategically embellished with... Read Article ››

Happy St. Patrick’s Day!
  Originally posted in July 2010, this c. 1955 James Galanos deserves a repeat appearance in honor of St. Patrick's Day. With its vibrant emerald green color, it is easily one of the greenest garments in our collection. Enjoy!   During the... Read Article ››

James Galanos cocktail dress, c. 1955
During the 1950s, French haute couture was a dominant force in fashion. Elite American women traveled to Paris and purchased their wardrobes directly from renowned couturiers, while many others experienced haute couture through mass-produced versions of the... Read Article ››