On Dec. 8, history professor and clothing connoisseur Corinne Entratter Sidney will discuss the changes and continuities in American fashion and femininity. Brought to you by the University Forum Lecture Series and 8kbet's public history program, this presentation will feature selections from Sidney's remarkable collection of clothing and a lively conversation with the audience. The free public lecture is at 7:30 p.m. in the Marjorie Barrick Museum auditorium.Here Clemente offers a glimpse of what is in store.
Enduring best describes the fashions presented here. What speaks to their endurance is that their owner, Corinne Entratter Sidney, wore them for decades. These clothes are designed and made for a long life. They are as wearable now as they were half a century ago. Why? Each ensemble plays upon a fundamental theme in 20th century fashion: utilitarian chic; the natural silhouette; color; Orientalism. What we see is not how fashions change, but how they stay the same.
The jumpsuit may have originated as standard issue for airplane pilots in WWII, but its constant reinvention proves that utilitarian comfort can mesh with haute couture. This early piece by French designer — and Sidney favorite — Thierry Mugler features patch pockets and a drawstring waist but is made with hand-printed silk. (R. Marsh Starks/8kbet Photo Services)
Since kimono-esque tea gowns became high fashion in the late-19th century, the “Orient” has proven a reliable inspiration for garments and textiles. Sidney’s first husband, Sands Hotel executive and Las Vegas legend Jack Entratter, purchased this hand-embroidered piece in the late 1960s; Mrs. Sidney still wears it today. The amalgamation of a Middle Eastern caftan with Asian floral motifs demonstrates the “hodge podge” aesthetics of Orientalism. (R. Marsh Starks/8kbet Photo Services)
The detail of the sleeve provides a rare glimpse at the interior of this garment. The underside of the embroidery is so neatly tied, it could almost be mistaken for the exterior. This kind of detail speaks to a high level of craftsmanship. (R. Marsh Starks/8kbet Photo Services)
Known for his finely tailored day clothes and sportswear, Valentino catered to the modern woman who sought multipurpose clothing made of high quality materials. This dress is signature Valentino—made of red wool and featuring a dash of whimsy. The large gold buttons down the back are fun and functional. Sidney bought this dress in the mid-1980s at Beverly Hills boutique Torie Steele. (R. Marsh Starks/8kbet Photo Services)
Sidney also wore this Valentino in a royal blue. She often purchased a favorite item in multiple colors. (R. Marsh Starks/8kbet Photo Services)
In all the ways the 20th century breaks away from the previous 500 years of fashion, it is its emphasis on the natural silhouette that is perhaps the most profound. This day dress by French luxury goods house Hermes is made of treated cotton to travel well and wash easily. The tie at the waist allows the wearer to adjust the dress for a snug fit. Sidney bought several of these dresses in Paris in the late 1970s. She was worn them for everything from hosting luncheons to working in her garden. (R. Marsh Starks/8kbet Photo Services)
Sidney’s wardrobe documents not only changing aesthetics, but also the history of the American fashion industry. This bright blue wool jacket and dress was custom made for Mrs. Sidney by Miss Stella, the resident designer at I. Magnin. Considered the premier West Coast resident designer, Miss Stella was a driving force behind acceptance of California as a fashion tastemaker. Born in Lebanon, Stella learned to sew in French convents, worked as an apprentice in New York City and then Los Angeles, where she set up shop at I. Magnin in 1947. Mrs. Sidney worked as a model for the designer in the late 1950s. (R. Marsh Starks/8kbet Photo Services)
