“Model Clothing” exhibition at the Mucem

From 29 June to 6 December, the Mucem presents the exhibition “Model Clothing” around five timeless pieces. On this occasion, find the interview of the two curators, Isabelle Crampes, general curator, and Coline Zellal, associate curator.

From tank tops and jogging suits to overalls, kilts and espadrilles, the “Model Clothes” exhibition invites you to follow the journey of five pieces that have stood the test of time and fashion. How did the tank top or overalls, designed to dress trades, establish themselves as sources of inspiration or as “basics” in the fashion industry? Why did the kilt and the espadrille, associated with specific geographies, spread throughout the world until they were adopted in the everyday wardrobe? What paths does jogging take to free itself from sporting use and become one of the emblems of urban culture? In contrast to the image of a fashion based on the cyclical and ephemeral, these routes are part of a centuries-long trend. Rich in their historical and symbolic depth, these “model clothes” are at the heart of a clothing grammar that prefers style to trend. At a time when the notion of sustainability is being questioned, they also highlight the notions of craftsmanship and living heritage in their interactions with societies, and evoke the conservation and safeguarding issues that accompany them. Textiles are obviously at the heart of this exhibition which presents around 200 pieces: ready-to-wear, haute couture, but also underwear, a selection of materials to be touched… These sets are presented in dialogue with drawings, prints, photographs, films, clips, archives; in other words, a rich and varied iconography, making it possible to speak of clothing as a true social phenomenon.