Exhibition

  

   
   
The Artistry of Adrian:
Hollywood's Celebrated Design Innovator
   

Second Rotation: April 25 to August 31, 2003
First Presented: June 5, 2002, to November 17, 2002
Noel Palomo-Lovinski, Guest-Curator

   

The Retail Years: International Influences


  
Two-piece wool skirt suit.
Chocolate brown double-breasted melton jacket. Camel-colored twill skirt.
The skirt's waistband and tabs and the jacket's revers are of brown striped velve
t.
Label: Adrian: Original Halle Brothers and Co, Specialty Shop
late 1940s-early 1950s, United States of America
Kent State University Museum
Gift of Mrs. Marion Larson
KSUM 1989.32.3ab

During and post WWII, uniforms were an overwhelming source of inspiration for many fashion designers. Adrian was interested in any type of uniform, including the French Legionnaire's.
   

 

  
Two-piece navy and white check silk skirt suit worn with navy and white polka-dotted silk shirt.
Label: Adrian: Julius Garfinkel & Company
c.1948
, United States of America
Kent State University Museum
Gift of Joseph Simms
KSUM 1984.23.3a-c

This ornate bolero, silk blouse and cummerbund skirt is a curious mix of Spanish and men's wear influences.
      

 


Black rayon coat dress in Enka crepe with Kimono sleeves
Label: Adrian Original
c.1944-1945, United States of America
From the wardrobe of Mrs. William Bland, Houston, Texas
Kent State University Museum
Gift of Mrs. William Bland through Joseph Simms
KSUM 1984.23.35

The dress has a clear Asian influence from the kimono sleeves to the robe-like fit, which has a casual yet graceful elegance.
     

 


  
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