This exhibition explores the origins and development of fashion press in Spain, tracing its evolution from the luxury industry in France to late 19th-century publications. It examines various types of fashion magazines, their role in shaping societal expectations for women, and the changing silhouettes and lifestyles they reflected.
¡Extra, moda! El nacimiento de la prensa de moda en España' (Extra, Fashion! The Birth of Fashion Press in Spain) invites visitors on a journey through the history of fashion magazines, starting from the French luxury industry in the time of Louis XIV and continuing through to the late 19th century, marking the arrival and growth of fashion press in Spain. The exhibition's central theme is the evolution of fashion publications, highlighting key milestones such as the launch of 'Mercure Galant' in France (1672) and the emergence of enduring titles like 'Harper's Bazaar' (1867) and 'Vogue' (1892) in the United States.
The exhibition delves into diverse magazine typologies, including women's, feminist, and educational publications, all of which aimed to construct specific models of womanhood. It also highlights the transformation of the female silhouette, the influence of sports and social life on fashion, and the increasing incorporation of women into the workforce and domestic spheres. By examining these historical trends, '¡Extra, moda!' encourages reflection on the role and nature of fashion press in contemporary society, drawing connections from its origins to the present day. The exhibition features fashion figurines, costumes, and other pieces from the Museo del Traje's collection, complemented by items from other public institutions and private collections.