Conversation Pieces: Stories from the Fashion Archives

Conversation Pieces: Stories from the Fashion Archives features more than 60 unique designs from the DAM’s own fashion collection, most of which have never been shown before.

Through intimate groupings and striking juxtapositions that place pieces in dialogue with each other, discover connections between visionary designers, cultural movements, and the evolution of iconic fashion houses. The exhibition also shines a spotlight on Denver’s own fashion legacy, from the city’s pioneering donors to the department stores that championed American design and helped define a distinctly modern aesthetic.

Historic treasures from the DAM’s collection include a 1930s Jean Lanvin gown donated by Mrs. Gio Ponti; an afternoon dress dating to 1905-1910 worn by inventor Ms. May Wilfley; and a 1935 silk velvet evening wrap by Italian designer Maria Monaci Gallenga worn by Mrs. Thomas Patterson Campbell of The Rocky Mountain News family. These pieces will be displayed alongside recent acquisitions including a John Galliano dress from his Spring/Summer 1993 Olivia and Filibuster collection; an Alexander McQueen dress from the legendary designer’s final Plato Atlantis collection; and a lace ensemble by Karl Lagerfeld for Chloé worn by supermodel Kate Moss on the Fall/Winter 1993–94 runway.

Other designers on display include Gabrielle “Coco” Chanel, Yves Saint Laurent, Ceil Chapman, James Galanos, Yohji Yamamoto, and others.