Alan Strutt (British, born 1967). *Yasmin Le Bon, Palladium*, London, 1997. *Evening Standard*, October 1997. Haute couture Fall/Winter 1997–98 collection (“La Chimère”). © Alan Strutt

Thierry Mugler: Couturissime

November 18, 2022–May 7, 2023

Closing soon!

Thierry Mugler: Couturissime is the first retrospective to explore the fascinating, edgy universe of French designer and creator of iconic perfumes Thierry Mugler. A fashion visionary, Mugler established himself as one of the most daring and innovative designers of the late twentieth century. His bold silhouettes and unorthodox techniques and materials—including glass, Plexiglas, vinyl, latex, and chrome—made their mark on fashion history.

In the 1970s, Mugler defined trends with his acclaimed “glamazon,” a chic, modern woman whose style evolved from the hippie fashions of the 1960s. In the 1980s and ’90s, Mugler galvanized the renaissance of haute couture through his provocative collections and theatrical fashion shows, which involved grandiose locations and the era’s most iconic models. Just as his work is still influencing new generations of couturiers, celebrities continue to be drawn to Mugler’s designs: his classic gowns have recently been worn by Beyoncé, Cardi B, and Kim Kardashian.

“...a reminder of just how important [Mugler] was as a link in the chain that got us to now, and how innovative his fashion truly was beneath the grandiosity and glitz.”

— New York Times

“Spectacular as many of the designs are, the installations manage to be equally evocative.”

— WWD

Connie Girl, Detox, and Ben Lee joined Matthew Yokobosky, Senior Curator of Fashion and Materials culture, to share inspiring moments from Thierry Mugler’s career, the designer’s inclusive and collaborative ways of working, and much more.

Exhibition Highlights

Ellen von Unwerth (born Frankfurt, Germany, 1954). Eva Herzigová, Vogue (Italy), 1992. Digital print. Prêt-à-porter Spring/Summer 1992 collection (“Les Cow-boys”). © Ellen von Unwerth