Sleeping Beauties

This publication showcases four centuries of fashion inspired by nature, featuring over 200 garments. It combines insightful texts and stunning photography, highlighting the artistry and fragility of these creations.

Sleeping Beauties: Reawakening Fashion is a captivating exploration of the intricate relationship between clothing and the human body, highlighting four centuries of remarkable garments and accessories inspired by the natural world. This publication delves into the artistry of fashion, offering readers a unique perspective on how garments engage the senses and evoke emotional responses. Through a combination of scholarly texts and insights from scientists and conservators, it examines over 200 fashion pieces, shedding light on their historical significance while acknowledging their delicate and transient nature.

The book features stunning photography by Nick Knight, showcasing creations from renowned couturiers and design houses such as Cristòbal Balenciaga, Gucci, and Alexander McQueen, among others. This exceptional visual representation enhances the reader's appreciation for the sensorial qualities of each piece, allowing for a deeper understanding of their artistic integrity. The photographs not only document the garments but also invite readers to engage with them on a more profound level, appreciating the craftsmanship and creativity involved in their creation.

Published by The Metropolitan Museum of Art and distributed by Yale University Press, Sleeping Beauties serves as both a scholarly resource and a visual feast. It is set to be exhibited at The Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York from May 10 to September 2, 2024, promising to be an enlightening experience for fashion enthusiasts and scholars alike. Through its rich content and exquisite imagery, the book reawakens our appreciation for the beauty and complexity of fashion as an art form.