Cecil Beaton for Vogue, 1948
The latest exhibit, Charles James: Beyond Fashion, which opens next week, will explore the couturier’s sculptural, scientific, and mathematical approaches to construct revolutionary ball gowns and innovative tailoring that continues to influence designers today. After designing in his native London, and then Paris, James arrived in New York City in 1940. Though he had no formal training, he is now regarded as one of the greatest designers in America to have worked in the tradition of the Haute Couture. His fascination with complex cut and seaming led to the creation of key design elements that he updated throughout his career: wrap-over trousers, figure-eight skirts, body-hugging sheaths, ribbon capes and dresses, spiral-cut garments, and poufs. All this finery will be on display. Take a look at some it here. Today, this is still really the red carpet standard that everyone craves. It’s sometimes called Hollywood Glamour but it is just pure GLAMOUR. The men attending The Met Ball on Monday night will be a bit challenged to keep up as they are required to wear white tie and tails. Look for pictures on social media #CharlesJames.
Mrs. Charles James in a Swan Gown
Butterfly Gown, photo by Cecil Beaton
Babe Paley, 1950, photo by John Rawlings
1946
Clover Leaf Ball Gown, 1946
Butterfly Ball Gown ,1955
Hipster Gown, 1946
1948
The man himself at work
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