10 Times Fashion and Art Joined Forces From Elsa Schiaparelli's collaboration with Salvador Dali to Loewe's creations inspired by the painter Albert York
There is no universal consensus on the precise definition of art. From what pleases to what reflects the times, philosophers have long struggled to determine the indefinable. Something that can be defined, however, is fashion. Despite being a general term that can be applied to "a way of doing something," a form of art, or a prevailing custom, the word has a specific meaning in the sartorial realm: what is on trend. And for decades, the worlds of fashion and art, both complex, have teamed up to create intriguing, fascinating, and unforgettable collaborations that are forever etched in our minds. We rounded up the 10 most legendary times fashion and art joined forces to leave an impression on the world.
Elsa Schiaparelli x Salvador Dali
Taking a cue from Richard Prince's famous nurse paintings, for Louis Vuitton Spring/Summer 2008, creative director Marc Jacobs sent models down the runway in see-through nurse dresses and hats that read Louis Vuitton letters.
Maison Margiela x Benjamin Shine
Before the eerie couture show and Pat McGrath's glass skin went viral, The Coat was the real star of John Galliano's days at Maison Margiela. Seen from behind, the long, white coat presented at the Spring/Summer 2017 couture show may seem innocent, but when viewed from the front, the perspective changes. What is seen is a black tulle sculpted into a woman's face. Created by multi-talented artist Benjamin Shine, the ghostly figure lingers as an echo, captivating fashionistas and art aficionados alike to this day.
Gucci x Isabella Cotier
With Jonathan Anderson’s savvy mind and artsy spirit, Loewe Fall/Winter 2024 displayed eighteen petite paintings by the late American artist Albert York ranging from his works from 1963 to 1990 on the green walls of the runway set – creating a genuine gallery. At times, though, the pictures left the walls and moved into the designer's mind, spiraling into Anderson's creations – as seen in garments featuring bucolic landscapes, handmade mosaics and floral patterns.
