In October, the Skirball Cultural Center in Los Angeles will honor Diane von Fürstenberg, the renowned Belgian fashion designer, with an exhibition celebrating the 50th anniversary of her famous wrap dress. This retrospective, titled "Diane von Fürstenberg: Woman Before Fashion," was originally conceived and presented by the Fashion & Lace Museum in Brussels. Following its success in Belgium, where it was exhibited from April 2023 to January 2024, it will make its US debut.

The exhibition unfolds across four thematic sections, offering visitors an immersive experience in the life and career of Diane von Fürstenberg. More than fifty of the designer's iconic garments will be on display, alongside artworks, fabric swatches, and media pieces. This presentation traces the evolution of Diane von Fürstenberg's career from the 1970s to the present day.

Visitors will have the opportunity to follow a detailed biographical journey, highlighting lesser-known aspects of the designer's life. The daughter of a Holocaust survivor, Diane von Fürstenberg was influenced by profound personal experiences that shaped her work and her vision of fashion. The event thus reveals a unique perspective on the impact of her family heritage and personal life on her professional career.

Although the retrospective celebrates the famous wrap dress, it goes beyond simply showcasing fashion creations: "Woman Before Fashion" is a free-flowing exploration of Diane von Fürstenberg's work. By combining diverse perspectives and juxtaposing her designs, the exhibition provides a key to understanding the career of this designer who captured the essence of women's needs and desires.

This exhibition doesn't simply celebrate the 50th anniversary of the wrap dress; it also seeks to reveal the woman behind the myth. By showcasing a selection of over 50 designs and a wealth of images, it offers an experience that begins with fashion and ends with the discovery of the woman herself. It's a unique opportunity to understand the inspiring career of this Brussels native who became an international fashion icon.

“DIANE VON FÜRSTENBERG: WOMAN BEFORE FASHION”
SKIRBALL CULTURAL CENTER 2701 N. SEPULVEDA BLVD., LOS ANGELES (UNITED STATES)
STARTING OCTOBER 17, 2024
SKIRBALL.ORG
DVF.COM