“Women Dressing Women” at The MET

The “Women Dressing Women” exhibit housed at the MET spotlights over seventy exceptional female designers from 1910 to the present, including luminaries such as Jeanne Lanvin, Elsa Schiaparelli, Madeleine Vionnet, Anifa Mvuemba, and Simone Rocha, among others.

Each outfit, meticulously chosen from the MET’s permanent costume collection,  is displayed on a diverse array of mannequins representing various sizes and shapes. This deliberate effort captures the beautiful diversity of women's bodies, creating a sense of support and inclusivity within the room.

“Women Dressing Women” is currently open until March 3rd, 2024. It serves as the perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in the world of fashion and set the mood for the upcoming Met Gala in May!

“Gabrielle Chanel. Fashion Manifesto” at Victoria & Albert Museum

Gabrielle “Coco” Chanel, the visionary force behind one of the most esteemed fashion houses, Chanel, has undeniably shaped the fashion industry. The Victoria & Albert Museum in London pays homage to her extraordinary fashion journey with the exhibit “Gabrielle Chanel. Fashion Manifesto.”

The exhibit provides a deep dive into the evolution of Coco Chanel's creative process, showcasing a diverse range of fashion artifacts—with over two hundred looks, alongside jewelry, accessories, cosmetics, and fragrances.  From Coco’s initial sketches to the iconic tweed suit worn by Lauren Bacall, each piece shares a part of Coco Chanel’s story. You can even find a handwritten thank-you note from Queen Elizabeth II expressing gratitude for the gift of Chanel No.5 from a close friend.

Coco Chanel's timeless impact, encapsulated in her famous quote "fashion changes, but style endures," resonates throughout the exhibit, as her designs have truly withstood the test of time and remain relevant in the fashion world. For enthusiasts of fashion and admirers of Coco Chanel's legacy, this exhibit is must-see; however, with a closing date set for February 25th, time is of the essence!

Balloon Museum

Balloon Museum is far more than an immersive display that is fun for all ages, it is a collection of the works of fourteen international artists who have come together to create this extraordinary experience. Interactive installations, like the seemingly infinite mirror wall (first picture) by Tadao Cern. and the huggable inflatable blob beings by Rub Kandy (second picture), actively invite participants to engage with the art. With each artist offering their unique perspective on the shared theme of balloons, the museum unfolds as a vibrant celebration of artistic diversity. The integration of all these distinct art expressions into a cohesive display is truly what makes this exhibition exceptional.

The traveling museum has become an iconic backdrop for photos, even attracting attention from TV characters like one of our favorite expats, Emily, from "Emily in Paris," who visits Balloon Museum in Season Three of the show. After visiting the London exhibition, the Guardian proclaimed it "very Instagrammable.”  We agree! 

Whether you are looking for an interactive form of art, a viral-worthy pic, or just a good time, make sure you get to Balloon Museum before it travels to its next location on January 14.