"The New York fashion industry was at one time the single largest employer in the US. New York fashion is of interest to the whole world, everybody wants to show here."–Ana Sui

"This exhibition gives a snapshot of the diversity of high quality design being produced in the United States and the impact of American production in our society."–Dennita Sewell

FASHIONED IN AMERICA

October 11, 2014–March 15, 2015

Ellman Fashion Design Gallery at Phoenix Art Museum

Fashioned in America, is an exhibition about how economics, ecology and labor ethics are driving a revival of fashion designs made in the United States. Featuring more than 40 ensembles and accessories, Fashioned in America highlights work by contemporary designers such as Ralph Rucci, Wes Gordon, Anna Sui, and Oscar de la Renta whose vision and talent are invigorating the revival of U.S. clothing manufacturing.

Demand for American-made goods is prompting retailers to bolster their plans to manufacture in the U.S. This cultural shift has wide-reaching economic implications and harkens to an era of American self-reliance. Designers and manufacturers are leveraging technology, hands on supervision and quality control to increase their global competitive edge. The impetus for bringing more apparel production to the U.S. is part of a groundswell of interest in labor practices, localist movements and the value of buying domestically.

Fashioned in America is presented in tandem with the release of Make it in America (2014), a new documentary directed by James Belzer. The film explores the reinvigoration of domestic apparel production highlighted by interviews with Martha Stewart, Nanette Lepore and Andrew Rosen among others. Fashioned in America will include an edited version of the film, a visual history of the garment industry and interviews that feature key makers, designers and influencers working in fashion today. The exhibition is drawn from Phoenix Art Museum’s extensive fashion design archive, design houses and private collections.