When Fashion Meets Iconic Art
Art is taking a step away from its typical position on museum walls, all thanks to high-fashion adaptations. Indeed, contemporary designers have produced various garments inspired by painters of the past, from Impressionists to Mannerists. It’s important to note, however, that the clothes are not necessarily carbon copies of the authentic art; designers may choose to draw from particular aspects of the scene—including patterns, color scheme, and overall concept—and put their own spin on the works. See below for the top 21st-century references to legendary artists who continue to leave a lasting legacy through style.
1. Moschino’s Spring/Summer ‘18 Runway—Inspired by Van Gogh’s Bouquet of Flowers in a Vase (1890)
The designer transformed his models into walking works of art by dressing them in avant-garde, floral bouquets reminiscent of Van Gogh’s iconic painting. Indeed, the red bow tied around the waist of the garment parallels the single red rose in the artist’s work. The white, knee-high boots almost serve as vases themselves, featuring brightly-colored flowers positioned at the top.
2. Uniqlo SPRZ NY Keith Haring Graphic T-Shirts--Inspired by Keith Haring Doodles (2019)
The popular pop art/graffiti artist of the 1980s made a comeback by taking a turn into the world of fashion. The graphic tees give off a laid-back vibe, echoing the spirit of Haring’s street style inspiration while displaying his clever doodles.
3. Stella McCartney Stubbs Cassandra Dress and Melissa Vest—Inspired by George Stubbs’ A Horse Frightened by a Lion (1770)
Instead of a canvas, the designer decided to exhibit Stubbs’ majestic animals on modern silhouettes, including a vest and dress. Additionally, McCartney seemed to have brightened the artist’s image, giving its gloomy aura more of a daytime feel.
4. Calvin Klein’s Spring ‘18 Runway—Inspired by Andy Warhol’s Tunafish Disaster (1963)
Shift dresses and tank tops were upgraded with the addition of the pop artist’s classic silkscreen painting. Although Klein typically captures the American spirit through fringe and denim pieces, this particular collection presented a darker, more mysterious side of the country thanks to Warhol’s work.
5. Comme des Garçons’ Spring/Summer ‘18 Runway—Inspired by Arcimboldo’s Vertumnus (1590-1591)
The 16th-century Mannerist painter was not afraid to step out of the box with his surreal portraits composed of fruits and vegetables—and Comme des Garçons’ approach was no different. The designer exhibited avant-garde dresses with Arcimboldo’s painting serving as the fabric and volumunous hairdos to match.
