Edward Steichen & Art Deco Fashion Exhibition at NGV

The 1920’s is one of my favourite era’s in fashion history.  It is the time when fashion and design entered the modern era.  Sportswear was born, skirts became shorter and clothing became less restrictive.

There is something so exciting about the dramatic change in fashion and culture at the time, and although the fit of garments were not really the most flattering for a women’s figure, It is the modernity, glamour, and theatre of the 1920’s which seduce me to the point of considering sequins and drop waists.

So you can imagine my excitement when a friend mentioned that NGV was currently exhibiting the work of  American photographer Edward Steichen, who from 1923 until 1938,  was chief photographer for Vanity Fair and Vogue. A man who really helped to revolutionise fashion photography in the Art Deco era.

The exhibition is absolutely stunning, and showcases over 200 of Steichen’s  photographs, as well as a selection of garments and accessories of the time.  What  impressed me most about the images was Steichen’s modern use of lighting techniques, which would have been quite avant-garde at the time, and capture the sophistication of his subjects so beautifully.

 I am by no means an expert on art or photography, but I am an avid appreciator of beauty, and really suggest for anyone who is in Melbourne to go and see this exhibition which is running until the 2nd March 2014.

Images: NGV International

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