Fashion and Lace Museum → Leçons de Mode → N°10 : IN THE PRESENCE OF THE PAST: CORSET AND CRINOLINE IN CONTEMPORARY FASHION

N°10 : IN THE PRESENCE OF THE PAST: CORSET AND CRINOLINE IN CONTEMPORARY FASHION

22/10/2015
Leçon de mode

This event has already taken place.

What is your view on fashion at the start of the 21st century? Lydia Kamitsis, fashion historian, independent curator and author of several specialised works, has deciphered current fashion trends.

What topics were discussed in the conference “In the presence of the past: corsets and crinolines in contemporary fashion”?

Between nostalgia and transgression, seeking a proud link with the past or a critical transformation, the reinterpretation by designers of forms, images and techniques from the past constitutes one of the major phenomena in fashion over the last few decades.

In appropriating corsets and crinoline, symbols of the triumphant bourgeoisie of the 19th century, contemporary designers are proposing a singular vision of fashion.

Leçon de Mode 10_ In the presence of the past: corset and crinoline in contemporary fashion ©P.Canino
Leçon de Mode 10_ In the presence of the past: corset and crinoline in contemporary fashion ©P.Canino

At present, several interpretations exist which highlight the multiple approaches designers can take, such as:

  • the ‘New Look’ by Christian Dior;
  • the de-constructed versions of the Japanese;
  • the extravagant creations of Vivienne Westwood.

The conference In the presence of the past: corset and crinoline in contemporary fashion was held in Brussels on Thursday 22 October 2015.