MET' MANUSxMACHINA Fashion's Fit with Technology

The grand entrance to this extraordinary exhibition at the MET's Costume Instit features a regal white gown that is a heavenly concoction of royal wedding gown & religious ceremonial frock.  The statuesque & bedazzled gown is the centerpiece of the show.   The elaborate train is breathtaking.  Above, the ocular shows a kaleidoscope video of the jeweled detailing. This imperial gown establishes the miraculous omnipotence of creativity enhanced with technological advances.  The curatorial adornments of multi-media tehnology are minimal.  The cornucopia of courture span from the 20th C to the present and are so striking on their own, it is suffice to simply identify the designer and year.  Note how the earliest designs appear contemporary & timeless.  The incredible craftsmanship of hand beading, embroidery, lacework are evident.  The advent of the sewing machine in the 19th C enabled mass production, exponentially liberating creative possibilities.  Then, as now, advances in science & technology have pushed the seamless boundaries of design towards exhilarating new achievements from tailoring ateliers.  Some of the futuristic, edgy designs incorporated 3D printed products, inorganic materials & laser cuttings.  The couture was jaw dropping for its beauty, ingenuity & peculiarities.  The intricate & ingenious designs were arresting.  A few (and there were many) favorites pieces:  "Venus" dress by Dior '1950, McQueen's spring/summer  '2009 dress with hand-embroidered enameled metal flowers and the Channel Wedding Ensemble '2006.  MANUS x MACHINE at the MET is a show to meander through slowly and enjoy in mass amounts.    My vote for best dressed at the MET Gala goes hands down to Beyonce who wore a stylish latex Givenchy gown with puffed shoulders & hand appliqué adornment.  Her dress was the pinnacle blend of machinery & handcraft with a wearable, contemporary design.