The art of wearing eye-catching clothing is not new to New Yorkers. It was done in the Gilded Age, during New York Fashion Week, and in Carnegie Hall. In the Gilded Age, the city saw great economic growth, and people wore clothing that reflected this growth.
During the Gilded Age
The Gilded Age was a period of incredible economic growth and political corruption, lasting roughly three decades from 1870 to 1900. Vanderbilts and Carnegies amassed outrageous fortunes, and New York became the financial center of the country. Fashion was a major part of Gilded Age culture.
Charles Frederick Worth, the “father of haute couture” during the Gilded Age, was the premier fashion designer of the period. He began his career as an apprentice in London before moving to France and working for Gagelin-Opigez & Cie, a fashion house that sold high-end textiles and ready-made clothes. Worth founded his own company, The House of Worth, in 1858. The house became synonymous with wealth, but the Worth name also represented innovation.
During New York Fashion Week
During New York Fashion Week, New York citizens and visitors artistically and romantically dress in eye-catching clothing. From lace-lined thongs to high-sheen fabrics, New Yorkers and visitors alike show off their most daring and eye-catching looks on the runways.
At Vera Wang’s fall show, sexy dresses, high-heeled shoes, and tiny black bandeaus were the focus of the show. The designer included details like lace sleeves, a mini-bag tied around the neck, and even a spiky ostrich plume. Vera Wang explained backstage that she was inspired by ‘duality and mystery’ while designing her clothes.
The designer’s collection features bold colors and prints, and many of the pieces are bold and eye-catching. She also showcases a collaboration with an established brand, such as Dickies, which will introduce 3D-printed jeans.
In addition to the runway shows, the city also hosts an array of after-party events that celebrate fashion week. From a night out with your loved one to a cocktail party with the hottest fashion stars, there are many ways to dress up during fashion week.
The final show of the fashion week is always the Marc Jacobs show at 6 pm on the last day. This show always draws fashionistas out of the doldrums. This show is held in the famed Ziegfeld Theater in midtown Manhattan, where many movie premieres take place.
At Carnegie Hall
If you’re looking for an arty, romantic date, Carnegie Hall is one place to go. The venue is a national landmark that was once in disrepair. It was about to be demolished, but after a successful campaign led by violinist Isaac Stern, the city rescued the building and it has undergone extensive renovations over the past 30 years.
The ensemble-in-residence from the University of Delaware, 6-wire, performed in Carnegie Hall on Feb. 16. The musicians wore coordinating outfits designed by the University of Delaware’s Department of Fashion and Apparel Studies. The event was attended by University President Dennis Assanis and members of the university’s faculty, alumni, and students.
The sartorial attire was inspired by the ambiance of the music hall. The venue is a cultural and artistic mecca where the city comes alive with live music. Carnegie Hall is a popular place for live music performances, and audiences flock to watch classical concerts. A recent concert at the Hall featured Florence Foster Jenkins.
If you’re interested in culture, there are many museums worth visiting in New York. The Fashion Museum is an educational institution that includes six galleries dedicated to various aspects of the city’s style history. It also features regular events and talks by industry experts and hosts special exhibitions. The New York branch of Madame Tussauds opened in Times Square in 2000. The museum’s permanent collection includes wax figures of movie stars, sports stars, and political figures.