Heavenly Bodies: Fashion and the Catholic Imagination

Exploring the dialogue between fashion and devotional art, The Costume Institute's Heavenly Bodies: Fashion and the Catholic Imagination at The Metropolitan Museum of Art features exquisite papal robes and accessories, along with more than 150 high-fashion ensembles from the last 100 years. (It also provided plenty of inspiration for The Met gala 2018.) Liturgical garments from the Sistine Chapel Sacristy are on exhibition in the Anna Wintour Costume Center, while dramatic presentations in the Museum's Byzantine and medieval galleries, as well as at The Met Cloisters, illustrate how 20th-century and contemporary designers have interpreted centuries of Church tradition. Pieces by Coco Chanel, Cristobal Balenciaga, Gianni Versace, John Galliano for the House of Dior, Karl Lagerfeld, Alexander McQueen, Jean Paul Gaultier, and other innovators illuminate the profound influences of devotional motifs and practices. The Met Store's fashion bracelets, statement earrings, stylish necklaces, fine rings, and artist apparel and accessories celebrate this landmark exhibition.