The Glamour and Romance of Oscar de la Renta October 8, 2017–March 18, 2018


► Información en español sobre la exposición

“This Oscar de la Renta Fashion Exhibit Will Take Your Breath Away” —Harper’s BAZAAR

The Glamour and Romance of Oscar de la Renta celebrates the illustrious life and career of the renowned fashion designer. The exhibition showcases nearly 70 ensembles sourced from de la Renta’s corporate and personal archives; the archives of French label Pierre Balmain; private lenders; and the collection of the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston.

Throughout his award-winning career, which spanned more than five decades and two continents, de la Renta (1932–2014) designed beautiful clothes for every occasion in a woman’s life. The Glamour and Romance of Oscar de la Renta highlights recurring themes, including the impact of Spain, Russia, China, Japan, and the garden on his designs. Displayed along with paintings and decorative arts from the MFAH collections, the creations offer a window into de la Renta’s world through a range of looks, from elegant daywear to resplendent evening gowns.

The ensembles are presented in four thematic sections, beginning with one of the most significant influences on de la Renta’s life: Spain, where he launched his career. The exhibition culminates in a look at gowns once worn by fashion icons, dignitaries, and celebrities, including Beyoncé, Laura Bush, Amal Clooney, Penelope Cruz, Kirsten Dunst, Karlie Kloss, and Lynn Wyatt.

► Publication
An illustrated catalogue is available through the MFA Shop (713.639.7360) and the Museum’s Hirsch Library (713.639.7325).

► Audio Tour
The optional audio tour explores Oscar de la Renta’s life, inspirations, and fashion through interviews with the designer’s clients, family, and close associates—including André Leon Talley and local lenders. Audio-tour players, based on availability, are located at the exhibition entrance. Offered in both English and Spanish.

► Exhibition Admission
Tickets, available online and on-site, include access to the Museum’s art collections. 

MFAH Member (Join now!)  Free 
Adult (19+)  $25
Senior (65+ with ID), Military (with ID), 
College Student (19+ with ID), Youth (13–18)
 $20
Child (12 & younger)  Free


Make It a Combo! Save when you combine your tickets to The Glamour and Romance of Oscar de la Renta with admission to Peacock in the Desert and/or Michelangelo and the Vatican. A two-exhibition combo pack is $30—and, during Spring Break (March 11–18), a combo pack for all three exhibitions is still just $30!


This exhibition is organized by the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston, with the collaboration of Oscar de la Renta, LLC.

Lead Sponsors: 

Cherie and Jim Flores

 

 

Kinder Foundation & Wells Fargo

With additional generous funding from:
Mr. and Mrs. Russell M. Frankel
Carol and Mike Linn 
Hallie Vanderhider
Rosanette and Harry Cullen 
Vivian L. Smith Foundation
Russell Reynolds Associates

Official Promotional Partner:
Houston Public Media

Location

Audrey Jones Beck Building
5601 Main Street
Houston, TX 77005
Map & Directions