The introductory gallery at Head to Toe features juxtapositions of contemporary and historic accessories to make connections over time. For example, a modern woman picks up a pair of sunglasses to protect herself from the sun, but a woman in the mid-nineteenth century would have used a parasol. The first half of Head to Toe focuses on 1800-1940 and showcases accessories particularly important during that time, for example, reticules (small fabric handbags). The latter half of the exhibit focuses on the new woman of the early twentieth century who has a more relaxed style, drawing inspiration from menswear. During this time, women are encouraged to buy more practical clothing, such as the little black dress, and use accessories such as leather pumps to enliven their plain clothing. Today, bags and shoes reign supreme in the accessory’s world.
Christian Dior, Cristóbal Balenciaga, Fendi, Pierre Balmain, Roger Viver, Lilly Daché, Claire McCardell, Tréfousse, Judith Leiber, and André Courréges are some of the featured designers.
For more information, visit the Museum at the Fashion Institute of Technology website.
