The evolution of fashion and style of the fairer sex may have been more prominent, but men have also seen a dramatic transformation of their appearance over the past centuries. Recently opened at the Powerhouse Museum in Sydney is Reigning Men: Fashion in Menswear 1715–2015, an exhibition which explores the history of men’s fashionable dress from the 18th century to the present. Originally organised by LACMA in Los Angeles and first presented on its premises two years ago, it’s the most elaborate showcase of menswear ever assembled, and quite interestingly, it also lays bare the often overlooked peacock element in men’s outfits of the past and present. Beginning with the 18th century, the male aristocrat wore a three-piece suit conspicuous in make and style, and just as lavish as the dress of his female counterpart. The 19th-century dandy made famous a more refined brand of expensive elegance which became the hallmark of Savile Row, the British capital’s renowned address of bespoke tailors. The mid-20th century mod relished in the colourful and modern styles of Carnaby Street, and the 21st century man – in an ultra-chic skinny suit by day and a flowered tuxedo by night – pretty much redefines today’s concept of masculinity. Next to historic pieces, included in the show are over 130 garments by top designers, such as Gucci, Saint Laurent, Comme des Garçons and Alexander McQueen, allowing illuminating connections between history and high fashion (on through Oct 14). A program of events and talks will accompany the exhibition. Highlights include monthly curator tours that delve into the historical context of men’s style.
Powerhouse Museum
500 Harris Street (Ultimo)
Sydney, NSW 2007
Telephone: +61 2 92170111
Daily 10-5
Publishers Note
Just to be clear – superfuture® is a design blog and not a political commentator. No surprise there. The scope of our content has always been global and borderless, however that can often mean covering projects in countries where we will not agree with the politics or actions of those countries. In a world that’s as screwed up as ever right now, the focus of our support is to those designers, architects and other creatives who aim to make the world a more liveable one – as opposed to people that try their hardest to destroy it. So if a project hits our desk and we like it based on its design credentials, we may choose to publish regardless of its location or creators nationality. superfuture® has always been inclusive and hopes for all current wars, aggression, violence, hate and extremism to end.
