Oscar de la Renta: A Dominican-American in Paris - Fashion Show and Conversation NEW

This event is co-presented by Dumpling Diplomacy.

"For the first time, the clothes didn't wear the woman. The woman wore the clothes." 

It was 1973. The Palace of Versailles was falling apart. Renovations could no longer be put off. Cue the Americans and the French, in a battle for fashion supremacy at the Battle of Versailles competition to raise funds for the beleaguered landmark. It heralded the dawn of recognition for models of color and the beginning of voguing.

JOIN US as we deconstruct the Battle of Versailles through the lens of Dominican-American designer, Oscar de la Renta. Open your ears to a discussion with Norma Darden, one of the original models at the show. Feast your eyes on a runway show featuring four custom de la Renta inspired gowns. Taste passion fruit juice and empanadas. Presented in both Spanish and English, this event will transport you to the past, ground you in the present, and provide a glimpse into the possibilities of the future.

FEATURING:

• Dominican-American fashion designer, Hipolito Pollantis, in conversation with Norma Darden, one of the original models at the Battle of Versailles Fashion Competition in 1973;
• Runway show featuring custom de la Renta inspired gowns designed by the fashion students of Donald Payne HS;
• Enjoy fresh bites and beverages.