AP Fashion Writer, New York
Coco Chanel once said that fashion has to die to live.
She was talking figuratively about the idea of seasonal renewal, killing off old styles so that new ones can emerge and grow. However, a new exhibit called “Gothic: Dark Glamour” at the Museum at the Fashion Institute of Technology takes a more literal look at how the theme of death has been carried through clothes over many years.
Goth fashion can probably be traced to the 18th century, when Fuseli painted “The Nightmare,” says Steele. It depicted a look of “gothic” that would eventually move the bar of what gothic was perceived to be: Instead of the medieval association with superstition, this was on the edge of psychotic.
Laura Mulleavy, co-designer of Rodarte with her sister Kate, says their long, draped gown worthy of Morticia Addams that is included in “Gothic: Dark Glamour” was inspired by Japanese horror films. The specific shade of red that is splattered onto a black-and-white ground is supposed to evoke blood in water.
Images courtesy of www.fitnyc.edu.
