“Given the role Surrealism and other art movements play in the designs of both Schiaparelli and Prada, it seems only fitting that their inventive creations be explored here at the Met,” said Thomas P. Campbell, Director and CEO of The Metropolitan Museum of Art.  “Schiaparelli’s collaborations with Dalí and Cocteau as well as Prada’s Fondazione Prada push art and fashion ever closer, in a direct, synergistic, and culturally redefining relationship.”


The opening gallery of Waist Up/Waist Down is an interesting look at why women in Schiaparelli’s era needed  interesting jackets for sitting down in cafes while Miuccia Prada designed beautiful skirts for the woman on the go.  Another difference was the hat that was important before and shoes that we all know are the way to a woman’s heart in this day and age.  While there aren’t any shoes for sale in the gift shop, there are a few bags. There were also a lot on the thin arms of those in attendance this morning and many Prada dresses on the ladies at the Met Gala tonight. But that’s another conversation.