Sunday, Oct. 8, 2017 – Sunday, Jan. 28, 2018

The Glamour and Romance of Oscar de la Renta celebrates the illustrious life and career of the renowned fashion designer. The exhibition showcases nearly 70 ensembles sourced from de la Renta’s corporate and personal archives; the archives of French label Pierre Balmain; private lenders; and the collection of the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston.

Throughout his award-winning career, which spanned more than five decades and two continents, de la Renta (1932–2014) designed beautiful clothes for every occasion in a woman’s life. The Glamour and Romance of Oscar de la Renta highlights recurring themes, including the impact of Spain, Russia, China, Japan, and the garden on his designs. Displayed along with paintings and decorative arts from the MFAH collections, the creations offer a window into de la Renta’s world through a range of looks, from elegant daywear to resplendent evening gowns.

The ensembles are presented in four thematic sections, beginning with one of the most significant influences on de la Renta’s life: Spain, where he launched his career. The exhibition culminates in a look at gowns once worn by fashion icons, dignitaries, and celebrities, including Laura Bush, Amal Clooney, Penelope Cruz, Kirsten Dunst, Karlie Kloss, and Lynn Wyatt.

► Related Publication
An illustrated catalogue is available through the MFA Shop (713.639.7360) and the Museum’s Hirsch Library (713.639.7325).

► Audio Tour
The optional audio tour explores Oscar de la Renta’s life, inspirations, and fashion through interviews with the designer’s clients, family, and close associates—including exhibition curator André Leon Talley and local lenders. Audio-tour players, based on availability, are offered as guests enter the exhibition. Available in both English and Spanish.

► Exhibition Admission
Tickets, available online and on-site, include access to the Museum’s art collections.