‘Fashion Statements’ heats up LA: ASU FIDM Museum hosts star-studded inaugural exhibition
"Fashion Statements" guest contributor Johnny Valencia was one of several leading experts in fashion, art and culture invited to select pieces from the ASU FIDM Museum's extensive collection for the exhibition and offer personal interpretations and perspectives on style and creativity. Photo by Monica Orozco
ASU FIDM Museum in Los Angeles recently launched "Fashion Statements," its highly anticipated inaugural fashion exhibition under the ASU banner, drawing LA’s fashion elite. This event marks a significant milestone for both the ASU FIDM Museum and Arizona State University, underscoring ASU’s growing influence as a leader in the arts and a key player in the creative economy. The exhibition serves as a testament to ASU’s commitment to fashion education and its influence on cultural conversations.
"Fashion Statements" taps into the museum’s extensive 15,000-piece archive, delving into the role that fashion plays in shaping identity, culture and history. Curated selections from 36 prominent fashion leaders — many based in Los Angeles — reflect the dynamic interplay between fashion and societal shifts across centuries. The exhibition runs through Nov. 9.
The opening night reception on Sept. 5 was a highlight of the LA cultural calendar, attracting a vibrant mix of designers, collectors, cultural influencers and industry insiders. Guests such as fashion designer Johnny Cota and "RuPaul’s Drag Race" winner Symone, as well as legendary record executive, talent manager and television producer Benny Medina, were among the first to view the more than 70 historically significant garments selected by the guest contributors.
The event was also an opportunity for current ASU FIDM students to step into the fashion world. One such student — Faith George — was among the first to view the items on display as part of her work as an ASU FIDM Museum assistant.
“By attending the opening reception for ‘Fashion Statements,’ I had the opportunity to meet designers and see the one-of a-kind fashion objects that have inspired them throughout their careers,” said George, who is studying fashion design in Los Angeles. “I couldn’t recommend this exhibition more and would encourage anyone in the LA area to plan a visit!”
Christine Devine, an ASU Cronkite alumna and distinguished television news anchor in Los Angeles, best known for her work on KTTV’s Fox 11 News, expressed her pride in being part of this momentous occasion.
"As an ASU Cronkite grad and longtime cheerleader for the university, I am thrilled to represent,” Devine said. “The gold embroidered bodice was a stunner. How could you not say, ‘Wow!’ and not be taken back to that era? The craftsmanship was magnificent!"
-
Mima Ransom, “Fashion Statements” contributor and fashion council founding chair.
Photo by Monica Orozco
-
Fashion editor Anne Crawford.
Photo by Monica Orozco
-
Lauren Lepire, “Fashion Statements” contributor and Timeless Vixen owner.
Photo by Monica Orozco
-
From left: Heathyr Lawrence, “Fashion Statements” contributor and founding designer of Mantrap1989, and footwear designer for Demonia Cult.
Photo by Monica Orozco
-
Michelle Violy Harper, “Fashion Statements” contributor, brand and corporate strategy advisor and influencer.
Photo by Monica Orozco
-
Valerie Von Sobel, “Fashion Statements” contributor, philanthropist and artist.
Photo by Monica Orozco
-
Kevan Hall, “Fashion Statements” contributor.
Photo by Monica Orozco
-
Fron left: “Fashion Statements” contributor Kevan Hall and ASU FIDM Director Dennita Sewell.
Photo by Monica Orozco
-
Dana Williams Flores and “Fashion Statements” contributor Dafne Belatsos.
Photo by Monica Orozco
-
ASU FIDM Museum curators (from left) Kevin Jones, Christina Johnson and Christina Frank.
Photo by Monica Orozco
-
From left: Kirk Thomas, “Fashion Statements” contributor, Gelila Puck and Benny Medina.
Photo by Monica Orozco
-
ASU FIDM Director Dennita Sewell and “Fashion Statements” contributor Gelila Puck.
Photo by Monica Orozco
-
“Fashion Statements” contributor and fashion designer Jonny Cota.
Photo by Monica Orozco
-
Guest Benny Medina at the "Fashion Statements" opening night reception.
Photo by Monica Orozco
-
“Fashion Statements” contributor Rose Apodaca (left) with ASU FIDM Director Dennita Sewell.
Photo by Monica Orozco
Cultural narratives in fashion
The curatorial approach of "Fashion Statements" emphasizes fashion as a profound form of self-expression and a tool for cultural and social commentary. The pieces on display range from luxurious 18th-century court gowns to bold statements of modern couture, each telling a story of its era and reflecting how clothing can influence and respond to societal shifts.
“The works in the ASU FIDM archives represent centuries of craftsmanship and creative expression in the fashion arts — the fashion statements of their time,” said Dennita Sewell, founding director and professor of practice for ASU FIDM. “We have invited experienced tastemakers, community pillars and fashion lovers to participate as guest contributors, and their selections offer a sampling of designs and ideas that reflect the modern zeitgeist and demonstrate how contemporary audiences perceive the history of fashion. Through these perspectives, we aim to illustrate how the valuable resources available in our archives and library support the thriving Los Angeles fashion industry.”
This exhibition represents the next chapter in the university’s commitment to shaping cultural dialogues through initiatives like the "Fashion Statements" exhibition, which aligns with the university’s mission to be at the forefront of creative and cultural leadership.
“Seeing the collection through the lens of the community offers refreshed perspectives on the archival works and opens up its vast potential for creative inspiration and education,” said ASU FIDM Museum Senior Curator Christina Johnson. “ASU FIDM Museum exhibitions expand fashion narratives, inspire new generations of designers and celebrate the self-expression and joy that fashion brings to people.”
Opening night highlights
The opening night reception was a vibrant affair, attracting a who’s who of the fashion and entertainment industry. Highlights from the exhibition include:
- A 1952 Christian Dior cocktail dress selected by five-time Oscar-nominated costume designer Jacqueline West.
- A 1974 Holly Harp evening gown chosen by Rodarte designers Laura and Kate Mulleavy.
- Mae West’s custom-made lingerie and platforms, selected by Dita Von Teese.
- A 1938 Elsa Schiaparelli evening ensemble selected by Valerie Von Sobel.
- An Alexander McQueen Fall 2008–09 dress chosen by fashion critic Hanan Besovic.
- A circa 1765 court gown selected by The House of Avalon.
- A Patrick Kelly ensemble picked by costume designer Charlese Antoinette.
Special programming
Throughout the exhibition’s run, the museum will host a series of lectures, panel discussions and workshops featuring museum curators, fashion historians, designers and industry experts. These programs will offer deeper insights into how fashion has shaped — and continues to shape — global culture.
Upcoming events
- Oct. 3 — "Unboxing the Archive" with guest contributor Johnny Valencia of Pechuga Vintage and the ASU FIDM Museum.
- Oct. 8 — Guest lecture with contributor Jess Cuevas.
- Oct. 17 — Conversation with guest contributors Kevan Hall, Heathyr Lawrence, Lily Martinez and ASU FIDM Museum Curator Christina Johnson.
Learn more at asufidmmuseum.asu.edu.
More Arts, humanities and education
ASU’s Humanities Institute announces 2024 book award winner
Arizona State University’s Humanities Institute (HI) has announced “The Long Land War: The Global Struggle for Occupancy Rights” (Yale University Press, 2022) by Jo Guldi as the 2024…
Retired admiral who spent decades in public service pursuing a degree in social work at ASU
Editor’s note: This story is part of coverage of ASU’s annual Salute to Service.Cari Thomas wore the uniform of the U.S. Coast Guard for 36 years, protecting and saving lives, serving on ships and…
Finding strength in tradition
Growing up in urban environments presents unique struggles for American Indian families. In these crowded and hectic spaces, cultural traditions can feel distant, and long-held community ties may be…