Events

Middle Age Crazy

Today, getting someone’s attention is all about texting and tweeting and maybe starting a rumor about the size of certain of one’s organs. But in the mid-19th century, it was fashion that caught the eye of a potential paramour. Medievalism -- also known as Gothic style -- is celebrated in...

By Robrt L. Pela

February 19, 2009

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Today, getting someone’s attention is all about texting and tweeting and maybe starting a rumor about the size of certain of one’s organs. But in the mid-19th century, it was fashion that caught the eye of a potential paramour. Medievalism -- also known as Gothic style -- is celebrated in a Phoenix Art Museum exhibit rather cleverly titled "Medievalism: Fashion's Romance With the Middle Ages" and featuring more than three dozen ensembles, fashion accessories, and rare old books. The collection illustrates how the fashion of the Middle Ages has inspired contemporary design, architecture, art, and literature. Christian Dior haute couture, Goth street style, and every imaginable “in thing” in between (including some amazing velvet tea gowns by Mariano Fortuny) combine to demonstrate the lines, textures, and whimsy of medieval style.
Wednesdays-Sundays. Starts: Feb. 21. Continues through July 5, 2009

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Robrt L. Pela has been a weekly contributor to Phoenix New Times since 1991, primarily as a cultural critic. His radio essays air on National Public Radio affiliate KJZZ's Morning Edition.

Contact: Robrt L. Pela