Our New Clothes: Acquisitions of the 1990s

by Richard Martin

An impressive array of clothing, accessories, and library materials is highlighted in this volume detailing a decade of acquisitions made by The Costume Institute.

Genres: Nonfiction, History, Fashion, Art

79 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1999

Reviews

[Alexandra · Rating 5 out of 5]

Well worth a read for anyone interested in fashion history, or the development of museum fashion collections. Published in 1999, the book highlights a decade’s worth of new acquisitions of the Met’s Costume Institute, including swoon-worthy pieces from the early 18th century on up. The whole thing is a bittersweet triumph. Richard Martin, the author, was also the Institute’s curator. The exhibition that the book accompanied ran from April to August of 1999, wrapping up shortly before his death in November. Martin clearly loved his work. While the book’s visuals take center stage, Martin’s comments on the clothes themselves, the collection process, contemporary designers, donors, his colleagues, and even other museums sparkle with personality, humor, and warmth.

[Kathryn Baron · Rating 4 out of 5]

Some exceptional pieces. Glorious mantua!