Private Talk & Tour: MODERN RITUAL The Art of Mary McFadden

View the Mary McFadden fashion exhibition at Drexel University, led by curator Rachel Sepielli. Plus, go behind the scenes for a private talk and viewing of the Fox Historic Costume Collection. Drexel University pays tribute to the “Modern Ritual” of fashion icon Mary McFadden with an exhibition that celebrates the incredible influence of the American designer.

Date: Thu Aug 01 2024

Time: 6:00 PM

Location: Drexel University URBN Center

Cost: $5 FGI Members | $15 Non-Members. Must have proof of membership.

Space is Limited. Must register in advance. No refunds; any funds go to the organization.

Background

Harold Koda, former curator-in-chief of the Costume Institute at the Metropolitan Museum of Art, once nicknamed Ms. McFadden a “design archaeologist.” Her pursuit of knowledge has led her around the world and inspired her collections, each named for an era of history, an art or literary movement, or an ancient civilization. These themes were woven sumptuously, yet meticulously, into her garments. This exhibition celebrates Ms. McFadden’s craft.

Fashion critics and insiders soon knew Ms. McFadden not only for her Marii pleating and historic inspirations, but for her one-of-a-kind hand-painted and quilted silks, her opulent beading and embroidery, and her burnished gold macrame bodices and trims. While her silhouettes were often said to be easy to wear, her surface techniques were sophisticated and her color combinations unexpected. Sensual and modern, Mary McFadden Couture was made for the woman not afraid to forge her own path.

Agenda:

Thursday, August 1

6:00pm: Meet at front door of the URBN Center at 3501 Market Street.

30-minutes for tour of Mary McFadden collection

30-minutes tour of the Fox Historic Costume Collection

Parking: There is metered street parking on Market Street, Filbert Street, 34th and 36th Streets on a first-come, first-served basis.

Public parking is available in Drexel’s Lot G parking garage, located at 34th and Market Streets (above Wawa). The entrance to the garage is on Ludlow Street. The cost is $17 for up to 5 hours, or $21 for the day (until 10pm).

Host or Publisher FGI Philadelphia