New York, NY –
New York City Fashion Week is all about the future of fashion, but fashion has a past, too. On this episode of The Fishko Files, WNYC’s Sara Fishko examines the very beginnings of Fashion Week, when it was a much simpler affair started by a savvy publicist.
Throughout World War II and before, Americans looked across the sea, to Europe, for fashion inspiration.
American designers like Claire McCardell and Bonnie Cashin emerged during and after Word War II. Their hallmark was refined sportswear.
Claire McCardell ‘Monastic’ dress – a waistless, dartless shirt dress, 1946
France didn’t necessarily take America seriously when it came to fashion. But then again, America didn’t take Parisian designers seriously, either. Here’s a clip from "The Secret Life of Walter Mitty," in which actor Danny Kaye sings “The Anatole of Paris” – a satirical take on Parisian hat makers.
Mix Engineer: Wayne Shulmister
Assistant Producer: Laura Mayer
Since 1999, Sara Fishko has been producing personal essays on music, art, culture and media. Fishko’s pieces provide an insightful and accessible look into culture by mixing colorful sound, intimate interviews and thoughtful commentary. The ...
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