FASHION

Photos: The History of Denim Is About More Than Just Jeans

The Museum at FIT takes on fashion’s favorite fabric.

by Sue Williamson

Roberto Cavalli

1

Roberto Cavalli ensemble, embroidered denim, spring 2003, Italy, gift of Roberto Cavalli. Photograph courtesy of The Museum at FIT.

2

Walking suit, striped denim, circa 1915, USA, museum purchase. Photograph courtesy of The Museum at FIT.

3

Comme des Garçons (Junya Watanabe) dress, repurposed denim, spring 2002, Japan, museum purchase. Photograph by William Palmer.

4

Claire McCardell “Popover” dress, denim, 1942, USA, gift of Bessie Susteric for the McCardell Show. Photograph courtesy of The Museum at FIT.

5

Levi Strauss & Co. jeans, embroidered denim, circa 1969, USA, gift of Jay Good. Photograph courtesy of The Museum at FIT.

6

Raphael leisure suit, denim, circa 1973, Italy, gift of Chip Tolbert. Photograph courtesy of The Museum at FIT.

7

Edun dress, white and black denim, 2007, USA, gift of Edun. Photograph courtesy of The Museum at FIT.

8

Jumpsuit, denim, 1942-45, USA, gift of David Toser. Photograph courtesy of The Museum at FIT.

9

Men’s work pants, denim and brushed cotton, circa 1840, USA, museum purchase. Photograph courtesy of The Museum at FIT.

10

Gianfranco Ferré suit, denim-look silk, spring 1999, Italy, gift of Gianfranco Ferré S.p.A. Photograph courtesy of The Museum at FIT.