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Discover some of the most iconic avant-garde designs of the 20th century in this fascinating retrospective dedicated to French couture king Pierre Cardin.
You’ve seen his name emblazoned on everything from pencil cases to key rings, but did you know that in the 1960s and ’70s the French designer was tearing up the rule book of high fashion? Brooklyn Museum’s exhibition 'Pierre Cardin: Future Fashion' – open now until January 5, 2020 – delves into the life and legacy of the legendary couturier via a selection of more than 170 objects drawn from his atelier and archive. Want to know more? We’ve taken a closer look.
Even if you haven’t heard of Pierre Cardin, you’re probably familiar with his creations. The 97-year-old French fashion designer is a living legend of the couture world, with a number of groundbreaking designs to his name. After spells spent working for the likes of Jeanne Paquin, Elsa Schiaparelli and Christian Dior, Cardin set off to found his own fashion house – imaginatively named Pierre Cardin – in 1950.
Cardin was a pioneer who often went against the norm, sometimes courting controversy along the way. In 1959, he was expelled from the Chambre Syndicale de la Haute Couture (a French high-fashion association) for going against its strict rules by launching the first-ever ready-to-wear collection for the Parisian department store Printemps. He also originated the concept of adorning garments with a designer logo, a feature that’s now seen on most branded clothing around the world.
Cardin started the “mod chic” trend in the ’70s, invented the bubble dress, created androgynous designs before they were a thing and viewed Japan as a viable market for couture before any other fashion house did the same. Some of his most iconic work was inspired by space exploration: Still just as out of this world today, the futuristic pieces from his ’60s Cosmocorps collection – some of which are on display in the exhibit – look like they’re straight off the set of Star Trek.
Cardin has been at the forefront of fashion since he took his first tentative steps into the industry during the 1940s. But he’s not just a master clothier. Over his career, he’s also tried his hand at designing car interiors, furniture and architecture. In fact, his “bubble palace” – called Palais Bulles, created with architect Antti Lovag – has to be seen to be believed. Located in the south of France, it’s a six-level complex of domes that features 10 bedroom suites, a 500-seat amphitheater and views across Cannes and Nice.
Though he’s only three years shy of his 100th birthday, Cardin is still going strong: He can often be found crafting new garments at his fashion house’s Paris headquarters, where he still heads the thrilling couture creations. Some of his recent eveningwear is even on display at the Brooklyn exhibition. Happy exploring!
'Pierre Cardin: Future Fashion' is at the Brooklyn Museum from now until January 5, 2020. $20. Get tickets here. #pierrecardinbkm
