The Metropolitan Museum Spring 2012 Costume Institute Gala is the most exciting night in fashion in the city. This year’s Gala celebrates the exhibition, Schiaparelli and Prada: Impossible Conversations, explores the striking affinities between Elsa Schiaparelli and Miuccia Prada, two Italian designers from different eras. The evening begins in the gallery, where iconic ensembles will be presented with videos of simulated conversations between Schiaparelli and Prada directed by Baz Luhrmann, focusing on how both women explore similar themes in their work through very different approaches. Our finely tuned focus, is what to wear to this extraordinary event where fashion, celebrity and industry combines to creates excitement beyond compare. This magnificent Marchesa Couture Beaded Gown, with its golden beaded embroidery adorned bodice over the cream silk organza, floor-sweeping skirt, was brilliantly designed for Red Carpet glamor. The Jose & Maria Barrera pave crystal jewels, Judith Leiber Minaudiere and Jimmy Choo sandals enhance the elegance of this stunning ensemble.
SHOP NOW: Marchesa Couture Beaded Bodice Gown ($6950), Jose & Maria Barrera Crystal Imperial Drop Earrings ($440), Jose & Maria Barrera Pave-Crystal Bracelet ($525), Judith Leiber Slide Lock Minaudiere ($1995), Jimmy Choo Dollis Crisscross Platform Sandal ($850)
Schiaparelli, who worked in Paris from the 1920s until her house closed in 1954, was closely associated with the Surrealist movement and created such iconic pieces as the “Tear” dress, the “Shoe” hat, and the “Bug” necklace. Prada, who holds a degree in political science, took over her family’s Milan-based business in 1978, and focuses on fashion that reflects the eclectic nature of Postmodernism.
