Eleanor Lambert is getting the recognition she deserves. Kicking off Women’s History Month – whether timing was intentional or not – is the first exhibition dedicated to the fashion publicist, founder of the CFDA and creator of the International Best Dressed List.
From now through March 28, The Museum at FIT pays homage the Lambert’s prolific, 75-year career. While she is widely credited as the first fashion publicist, her profound impact on American fashion extends much further. She was an instrumental figure in shaping the careers of American fashion legends such as Oscar de la Renta, Calvin Klein, and Halston; she started the Coty American Fashion Critic’s Awards, the New York Dress Institute’s Couture Group, and Press Week, which ultimately became New York Fashion Week.
In the exhibition, an intricate Bill Blass coat from Lambert’s personal collection sits along with the original announcement of the formation of the CFDA, and a handwritten letter from First Lady Jacqueline Kennedy personally thanking her for connecting her with Oleg Cassini – that’s after she reached out to Lambert when she faced backlash for wearing non-American designers. Other highlights include “Black Fashion Support,” which showcases her support for Black fashion models, designers, and publications, long before people in fashion even talked about diversity.
Curated by the students of FIT’s Fashion and Textile Studies: History, Theory, Museum Practice Master of Arts program, the exhibition includes five sections with a wide range of memorabilia, images, documents, and clothing that give a comprehensive look at Lambert’s reach.
The exhibition concludes with a section titled “Eleanor Lambert’s Vision of Seventh Avenue. This featured the work of Lambert’s clients – including a particularly eye-catching Oscar de la Renta caftan and midnight blue Halston evening gown.
The industry may have drastically changed over her seven-decade career, but the way Ms. Lambert laid the foundation for the American fashion industry as we know it today is unparalleled – a poignant tribute that is perfect during Women’s History Month.
The exhibition runs through March 28th at The Museum at FIT.
