‘Greatest Fits’ Exhibition Unveiled at Museum

Pictured left to right are Bill Blass, Coat and Belt, 1960s. Printed cotton and patent leather. Gift of Joyce Harrison; Bonnie Cashin, Hot Pants, 1973. Suede. Gift of Mr. Philip Stills; Greatcoat, 1960s. Suede. Gift of Barbara D. Shear; Diane von Fürstenberg, Wrapped Jumpsuit, c.1977. Printed cotton knit. Gift of Mrs. Kelly Ellman (photo courtesy of Phoenix Art Museum).

The Phoenix Art Museum has unveiled “Greatest Fits (Vol. 1): The Art of Archiving Fashion,” a major exhibition that opened to the public on October 9. This marks the beginning of a five-year series designed to delve into the museum’s extensive fashion collection, which now includes over 9,000 pieces of historical and contemporary attire.

The exhibition showcases more than 90 garments and accessories, with select pieces rotating throughout its 18-month duration. This approach allows for a dynamic display that highlights the diversity and richness of the museum’s fashion holdings.

Beginning with an exploration of the Arizona Costume Institute’s founders, the exhibition illustrates the foundational role they played in shaping the collection. Viewers can expect to encounter iconic styles ranging from the 18th century to modern-day, enhanced by vignettes that reflect critical themes and historical contexts. The museum aims to educate visitors about the broader history of fashion through these curated narratives.