I finally went to see the Charles James: Beyond Fashion exhibit during its last weekend at the Metropolitan Museum of Art. I intended to go all summer but every time I walked by the museum, I was instantly deterred by the large crowds of tourists. (Blame it on the New Yorker in me.) Finally, upon realizing that it would be the last weekend for the exhibit, I grabbed my camera and went during the last two hours of the Friday evening showing.

I’m sure glad I went! The couture works of Charles James is really something to behold in person! While I did my best to capture the intricate details and immaculate structure, seeing the pieces in person is the true experience. The exhibit design was absolutely perfect: the rooms were painted in solid black with James’ quotes displayed throughout the space. The garments were lit with small pinspots and were surrounded with floor to ceiling mirrors, making the work look like trophies.

Appealing to my inner nerd, technology was utilized to further explain the exhibit pieces. Large robotic arms holding lights and onboard cameras danced around the pieces, highlighting unique accents and referencing back to a screen that displayed everything from measurements to design technique. 3D models of the pieces would morph into an exploded axonometric in order to demonstrate structural assembly and use of fabric and materials.

It was fascinating to see James’ creative process through his sketches and muslin trial dresses. It is easy to see why he inspired designers like Alexander McQueen, Christian Dior, and Zac Posen. Many people at the exhibit were happy to see that the designer — who died destitute and penniless — was finally able to get recognition he deserved.

P.S. If you weren’t able to see it in person before it closed last week, have a look at the museum’s media page to watch videos on the exhibit.